Humility and God’s Justification

Humility and God’s Justification…

It’s easy to read Jesus’ parable and feel a comfortable distance from the self-assured Pharisee. We might even nod in agreement, thinking, “Yes, humility is key.” But if we’re truly honest with ourselves, haven’t we all, at times, stood in a place of subtle judgment, comparing our perceived virtues to the shortcomings of others? Perhaps not with the Pharisee’s overt pronouncements, but in the quiet corners of our minds.

To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’ “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 18:9-14

The Pharisee, in his meticulous observance of religious practices, had likely dedicated himself to living a life that honored God. His fasting and tithing were commendable acts. Yet, his prayer became a monument to self-congratulation, a wall built between himself and the very grace he sought. He focused on his own righteousness, defining himself in opposition to others, especially the despised tax collector.

The tax collector, on the other hand, understood the chasm between his actions and God’s holiness. His posture, his averted gaze, his simple plea, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner,” spoke volumes about his contrite heart. He didn’t offer excuses or justifications; he simply acknowledged his need for divine grace.

Jesus’ conclusion is stark: it was the humble tax collector, not the self-righteous Pharisee, who went home justified. This isn’t a condemnation of good deeds, but a powerful reminder that our standing before God isn’t earned through comparison or self-promotion. True righteousness isn’t about appearing better than others; it’s about recognizing our own need for God’s mercy and approaching Him with humility.

This parable challenges us to examine our own hearts. Do we approach God with a spirit of gratitude and dependence, acknowledging our imperfections? Or do we subtly measure our spiritual progress against others, allowing pride to creep into our prayers and perceptions? The path to true justification lies not in exalting ourselves but in humbling ourselves before a loving and merciful God.

Gracious God, we confess that we often fall into the trap of comparison, subtly elevating ourselves while looking down on others. Forgive us for the times we have focused on our own perceived righteousness rather than on your boundless grace. Grant us the humility of the tax collector, the courage to acknowledge our need for your mercy, and the wisdom to understand that true worth lies not in our own achievements but in your unfailing love. May we always approach you with contrite hearts, knowing that it is in humility that we find true exaltation in your sight. Amen.

Humility is not thinking less of yourself. It’s thinking of yourself less.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼