I needed to know that I was a dead woman, totally depraved. This was only possible when I was regenerated and given life. When walking dead I had no comprehension of the depth of my sin.
It is important for me to know that of myself I would have walked right into hell. As Pilgrim said, it is only the sovereign and secret work of the Holy Spirit that can bring a dead person back to life. Being aware of this should keep one humble and truly thankful.
Sadly, there are very few churches that teach these truths, consequently, false doctrine is rampant.