Devotion:
Read Luke 18:9-14.
This parable is a follow-up to the proverbs from yesterday’s devotion. God’s Word, both written and “in the flesh” teaches us to be humble, not haughty. Two men went to the temple to pray. The Pharisee went to be seen and heard by those around him boasting he wasn’t like “other people” who steal, cheat, or take part in adultery. In fact, he had an “I” problem! This Pharisee used the personal pronoun four times in his prayer. On the other hand, the tax collector knew he was sinful and needed mercy, forgiveness, and grace. He prayed, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” The tax collector, not the Pharisee, went home justified. “Justified” means “made right before God.”
The difference between these two men was not their outward actions or words, but their hearts. Jesus reminds us that our faith isn't about religious pretentions, but about our humble response to God.
If we’re not careful, we can become like this Pharisee boasting about our outward actions. “I am at the church whenever the doors are opened!” “I’m the first to sign up for all the mission activities!” “If only others were like me, our church would be thriving!” We cannot justify ourselves before God by putting others down so that we can elevate ourselves. Self-righteousness leads to pride, and pride can cut us off from God.
Let’s take an honest inventory of our own life and recognize our daily need for God’s forgiveness, mercy, and grace. Then humbly go to him in prayer.
Personal Worship Option:
Humbly go to God in prayer confessing your sins and seeking to be made right before him. Then receive his forgiveness, mercy, and grace.
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