Gerhard and Walther

Therefore, when God the Lord sends us tribulation, we are thereby reminded regarding our sins that we are to acknowledge them and heartily regret them. Such contrition and repentance is the beginning and the foundation of true godliness.—Johann Gerhard, Schola Pietatis I:212.

Many are ashamed to seek salvation through faith in Christ, the Savior of the sinner, and instead they build their hope for eternity on their upright life. They carelessly regard themselves as good, without having examined their heart, their words, and their works.—C. F. W. Walther, God Grant It!, p. 235.