” Memory Verse
“I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”
Luke 18:14
Today’s Devotional
You don’t pray because you want to come across as better than others, that is exactly what the Pharisees and scribes were doing that Jesus warned against:
“And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” Matthew 6:5, see also Mark 12:38-39
See the extent they were willing to go to come across as better than others; and people haven’t changed! This is why you must use God’s word to evaluate your intents and actions. Look at this:
“For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?” 1 Corinthians 4:7
What a great question; if everything you have, you were given, then there’s nothing to boast about and so before God you ought to come boldly but humbly and make your petitions. Whatever he grants you, he can grant to someone else; it’s not in your place to be a judge of God’s benevolence.
Bible Reading Plan
Joshua 19
Ephesians 3