Luke 18

 As Jesus spoke of a Pharisee and a publican going to the temple to pray, He spoke first of  - 

"The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess."  (Luke 18:11–12)

Sounds quite arrogant, and then - 

"...the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner."  (Luke 18:13)

 

Of such, the Savior taught - 

"I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."  (Luke 18:14)

In my mind, humility and contrition of heart brings mercy and forgiveness.