Luk 18:9-12, 9 To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable: 10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood up and prayed ABOUT HIMSELF: ‘…’ (NIV)
I came across a Swahili song where the singer outlined all that she had done for the Lord declaring that she was ready for her blessings. While I believe God does bless men, I don’t believe the main reason is based on how obedient we are. If that was the case, then our very wrongs we should get what we deserve, death sentence because of His wrath.
To measure the success of our walk by performance is to be an idolator, for in the days you don’t pray, read the word, or reach others you will be discouraged. Idolator’s joy is rooted in his performance. The self righteous pharisee in this parable prayed about his performance, to be seen of men while despising others. Some true believers don’t to it to be seen of men but God. Indirectly we think “Lord see all I’m doing for you, bless me”. We need the publican spirit who knew how unworthy he was, deserving nothing but punishment. In humility he was granted mercy he asked for. We are saved by hope, purified by it, blessed by it, kept by it, favored by it. This walk is that of mercy not merit.