A little boy was overheard praying: “Lord, if you can’t make be a better boy, don’t worry about it. I’m having a real good time like I am.”
Perhaps we would agree that is a very honest prayer. However, where does such honesty take one? We live in a world where many feel there is no need for change; people who think they having nothing from which to be saved. Therefore, they feel no need for a Savior. However, what is needed is to make an honest assessment of self — to understand “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23) — and are thus in need of God’s help to move from where one is to where He desires us to be.
In view of those who trusted in their own righteousness and looked down on others in contempt (Luke 18:9), Jesus told a parable of two contrasting prayers. In that parable, we should note the honest prayer we need is not that of the Pharisee who seemed to offer more of a brag session on himself than a prayer (Luke 18:10-12), but rather like the one of which we read. . .
“(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!’” (Luke 18:13 ESV)
It was this one whom Jesus noted as going home justified. (Luke 18:14) His honest prayer acknowledged his true condition and humbly appealed to the mercy of God. That is the honest prayer for us all. And it is the honest prayer that brings the blessing in drawing us to the One Who can bring the transformation to our life we need.
As the psalmist David noted in view of his own sin. . .
“(17)The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” (Psalm 51:17 ESV)
As I consider my own life, I must acknowledge there being no room for me to exclaim, “God, you are so lucky to have me on your team.” No, it is I who am so fortunate to have the mercy of God made available to me for my betterment and for His Divine purposes to be worked in and through me to His glory and praise. Honestly, I need God’s grace and mercy! May that reality keep drawing me humbly to Him and then compel me to live in a proper manner (i.e. Titus 2:11-12) revealing my due appreciation for the gift of redemption He has provided!
Have a great day OPEN TO THE BETTERMENT GOD CAN BRING!
Carl
