9 June, 2025
“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 18:14
Heavenly Father, Merciful and Compassionate, in Your boundless mercy, You lift up the humble and bring low the proud. Lord, I do not want to stand in self-righteousness, thinking my deeds can earn Your favor. Instead, I come like the tax collector—aware of my sin, beating my chest in sorrow, and pleading for Your mercy. Teach me to pray not with pride, but with the honesty and humility that draws me closer to Your heart. Teach me Your ways, O Lord.
Gracious God, help me to see myself clearly in the light of Your holiness. Strip away the masks of performance and comparison that I often wear. Remind me that justification comes not through what I do, but through the grace You freely give to those who seek You with contrite hearts. Let my prayers be genuine, grounded in truth, and lifted in faith. May I never look down on others, but recognize that we all stand in equal need of Your forgiveness and love.
Lord, create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me. May I walk in humility each day, not exalting myself but seeking to honor You in word and deed. As I receive Your mercy, let it transform me into someone who shows compassion and grace to others. Thank You for the promise that those who humble themselves will be exalted—not by the world’s standards, but by the riches of Your kingdom. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen
