“But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” – Luke 18:13-14
Jesus and the Apostles repeatedly remind and challenge us not to think too highly of our virtue. We didn’t save ourselves. We can’t save ourselves. God didn’t save us because He knew how great we’d be, He saved us because of how great Jesus is! We must not forget these things and begin thinking our spiritual progress makes us something bigger or better than what we are. It is more than enough to be a precious and much-loved child of God saved as a gift of His grace through faith in His Son.
When we’re tempted to pat ourselves on the back because of positive changes in our lives, let us remember to praise God for them. When we’re tempted to look down on others who haven’t made the same progress we have, let us instead pray for them while thanking God for His glorious work in our lives. Any time we’re tempted to exalt ourselves, let us instead make much of God, for He has made much of us!
This isn’t about trashing yourself or constantly beating yourself up over past mistakes that God has forgiven. This isn’t about false modesty or humility. This is about letting your heart continually be captured by the holiness and grace of Jesus that blesses you each and every day. Never forget it! May God continue to exalt you as you walk humbly before Him! #FollowJesus