Jesus said: ‘Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: “I thank you, God, that I am not like other people – cheaters, sinners, adulterers. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.” But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, “O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.” I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted’ (vv. 10-14 NLT). You can appear to be the most devout person in church, but still have a heart filled with pride. And the worst part is that you don’t know it. For example, when you take all the credit for things God enabled you to do and have, that’s pride. When you compare yourself with others, that’s pride. When you think you can do the will of God without the power of God, that’s pride. When you exclude people who don’t fit into your peer group or social circle, that’s pride. And it’ll cost you, because ‘God opposes the proud but shows favour to the humble” (James 4:6 NIVUK). So if you want to walk in His favour, humble yourself before Him.
