“…two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, “God, I thank You that I am not like other men – extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess. And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, “God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted…” – Luke 18:10-14 (NKJV)
When we take a close look at our opening text, we realize that there is a major lesson that our Lord Jesus Christ was trying to communicate to us in the place of prayer. These two men went to pray, and one was claiming rights and feeling that, because he gave his tithe and fasted twice a week, he stood a better chance with God. While the other one who obviously wasn’t doing all the things that the first man was counting, was simply asking for mercy. He knew that only the mercy of God can see him through and truly, our Lord Jesus Christ, pointed out that the one who was asking for mercy went home justified than the other man. Do you know why? Because mercy is what lifts us up and unlocks the favour of God for our lives, irrespective of the things we do that are not in line with the word of God.
I know this might surprise you because the first man did everything according to the scriptures but from the things he said, you discover that his faith was in the things he was doing, not in the God to whom he was doing those things. He fasted because he felt he was better than the sinners out there. He gave his tithe regularly because he felt that was all he needed to be lifted before God. He did the right things according to God’s word, but from his discussion with God, it wasn’t with a perfect heart. So he was disqualified because his words did not communicate humility but pride and that is something that God does not put up with. Therefore, it is important that you become mindful of this truth and be humble in the place of prayer. But remember, there is nothing wrong with paying your tithe and fasting. These are physical activities we engage in, in the kingdom that can drastically change our lives. But you see, these things are to be done from a place of humility and not pride. The moment it is mixed with pride, you miss the blessings that these activities carry. Therefore, the next time you go to God in prayer, let humility take centre stage. Praise God!
Today’s Rhema
A prayer done from a place of humility and faith will always be honoured by God who shows mercy!
Confession for the Day
Father, I am grateful for this wonderful truth you have brought to me today, I choose this day to pray in humility and faith, I choose to keep my eyes on you oh God who shows us mercy and as I do this, I enjoy the grace of answer prayers in Jesus name. Amen!
