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 examine our opening text, we see a profound lesson Jesus is teaching us about prayer. Two men went to pray: one relied on his own righteousness, boasting about his tithes and fasting, while the other simply asked for mercy. The tax collector understood that only God’s mercy could save him—and Jesus pointed out that he was the one who went home justified. Why? Because mercy is what lifts us up and unlocks God’s favor, regardless of our shortcomings.
This might surprise you. The Pharisee did everything “right” according to Scripture—he fasted, tithed, and followed the law. But his faith was in his works, not in God. He fasted because he felt superior to others. He tithed because he believed it earned him God’s approval. Though his actions aligned with God’s Word, his heart was filled with pride, not humility. As a result, he was disqualified. God does not tolerate pride, especially in prayer.
So, the next time you pray, put your faith in God and His mercy, not in your works. Does this mean prayer, tithing, and other spiritual disciplines are unimportant? Not at all. These practices are vital, but they are a means to an end, not the end itself. They are acts of worship, not a way to manipulate God. This is why you must maintain an attitude of humility in everything you do. Hallelujah!
Today’s Rhema
The next time you pray, put your faith in God—He is the One who lifts men up!
Confession for the Day
Father, I am grateful for this insightful teaching. I receive wisdom today to remain humble in the place of prayer, in Jesus’ name. Amen!
