“But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner.’”
Luke 18:13
Jesus told a parable about two people: a Pharisee who exalts himself by comparing himself to others and a tax collector who manages to humble himself. Perhaps you’re familiar with it.
When my mindset is correct, when I am honest and repentant and grateful, I can say with the tax collector, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” This is a good place to be.
When my mindset is off, I sound like the deluded Pharisee: “At least I’m not judgmental like those people. At least I forgive. At least I know the importance of love. At least I’m kind.” This is not a good place to be.
Lord, when I exalt myself, help me to see it and admit it. Turn my straying heart back toward humility and honesty.
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