We go to church for a variety of reasons. Some of us enjoy the inspirational music, and might even join in. Many go to listen to the homily, or be with friends. Still others attend church just to "be seen" there. But, it's heartening to know that some actually still go to church to pray.
This, in fact, is one of the main reasons people attend church: to pray. Jesus himself said in Matthew 21:13, "...My house will be called a house of prayer..." Although prayer is undoubtedly good, without humility there really is no prayer at all.
On the other hand, the most simplistic and badly-phrased petition submitted in humility to God is by far a truly, powerful one. To gain some insight into this let's examine "The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector," Luke 18:9-14 (KJV).
As Luke 18:9 (KJV) opens, we are met with the thesis of this parable: the need for humility. Indeed, how many are similar to the Pharisees in their manners and actions? Outwardly we may appear as if we have it all together, regarding our religion. That is, we put on a big show for others, When in actuality our spirit is is all wrong.
Where's the humility? We trust in ourselves more than God, taking on a "holier than thou" attitude. If our religion were true, it would be humble. Those of us who fully trust in Christ for our righteousness feel that “we,” ourselves, are poor, miserable, and guilty. We don't hesitate to admit that others may be much better than we are.
What we see in Luke 18:11-12 (KJV) is a severe lack of humility. Jesus uses the Pharisee mentioned in the parable to point this out to us. Note that he "prayed thus with himself" and not to God. How about you? Are you really praying to God? Or, merely to brag? The Pharisee made sure that everyone heard him loud and clear!
In Luke 18:13 (KJV) we are treated to an honest, open display of humility. Interestingly, in the previous verses, the Pharisee placed a definite emphasis on himself when praying; even using five personal pronouns! Here, the publican (tax collector) barely squeezes in one; and that was to call himself a sinner!
The tax collector's prayer incorporated a reverence to God, and honesty about himself. Keep in mind that when praying for forgiveness, it is only given to those humble enough to approach God in humility (honesty), The Pharisee's prayer was purely self-serving. He compared himself to others using their faults and shortcomings to bolster himself.
The publican (tax collector) humbled himself before God, refusing to even look up. He was aware that God knows our hearts, and made no attempt at patronizing God in his petition for forgiveness (Joshua 17:10; Psalm 44:21).
As the parable closes in Luke 18:14 (KJV) we are left with the thought, "What difference did humility or the lack thereof in prayer make in these men's lives?" We can see that one man was the recepient of answered prayer, which was forgiveness. As for the other...he received nothing. Thus two important outcomes of humility are brought to light here.
First, if we are humble and honest in prayer, we will receive justification. Heavy burdens will be lifted, our sins forgiven, guilt is taken away, and we are filled with new joy and freedom! What a difference humility makes not only in prayer, but in our lives as well.
Lastly, the person who refuses to place themselves ahead of others, who humbles himself, who has no need to "toot their own horn" before God; that person will be exalted, or praised. And this will result because of their humility, and not by boastful, self-righteous, words and deeds.
Scripture: 1 Peter 5:6; James 4:10; Micah 6:8; Romans 3:23; Luke 14:11
Prayer: Dear Jesus, I desire to be like You, gentle and humble in heart, I want to live in harmony with others, I want to be compassionate and sympathetic, and always loving all. May You guide me and teach me Your way. Amen
Have a blessed day!
Susan
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.