3/2 Quiet Time (Luke 18:9-17 ESV)

9 He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: 10 “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ 13 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!’ 14 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.” 15 Now they were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. 16 But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 17 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.”

Lord, be merciful to me too.

I've been so distressed with myself for the past few days, but You look on me with loving eyes because You have called me righteous. I think I have a tendancy to think of my deeds and rely on them to make myself feel good about myself. But I'm thankful that the Lord sees the humble sinner a righteous person. I'm thankful I'm not satisfied with myself and the fact I don't see myself righteous.

 

I also want to rely on God like a little child. Please help me, every step I take. Sometimes I want to plan everything out and do things the way I want to. I want to find security and comfort in my plannings for the future - but I leave everything (church- and work-related things) up to You.