How do you approach God in prayer? Do you come like the Pharisee, standing tall and measuring yourself against others, or like the tax collector, head bowed and heart open, crying out for mercy? In Luke 18, Jesus shares two parables that teach us about the heart of humble prayer.
The Pharisee and the Tax Collector
In the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, Jesus contrasts two different approaches to prayer. The Pharisee stands proudly, listing his achievements and comparing himself to others. In contrast, the tax collector stands at a distance, humbly asking for God’s mercy. This story reminds us that God doesn’t listen to the strongest voice; He listens to the broken heart.
Two Sides of the Same Coin
These parables present two sides of the same coin. The first parable warns us not to give up in prayer, while the second warns us not to be puffed up in prayer. The first addresses discouragement, encouraging us to keep praying even when we don’t feel worthy. The second addresses self-righteousness and pride, reminding us to pray with humility because we are not worthy on our own.
The Faith That God Hears
The faith that God hears is one that is persistent and humble. Persistent prayer keeps us connected to God, while humble prayer keeps us grounded in our need for His grace. As we approach God with a humble heart, we open ourselves to His transformative power.
Living Out Humble Prayer
At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we strive to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us.” Through “Just 3″—Study, Share, Serve—we encourage you to study God’s Word to deepen your understanding of His grace, share your faith journey to inspire others, and serve with humility as an expression of God’s love.
Conclusion
Approaching God with a humble heart is essential to a vibrant prayer life. As you pray, remember that God values humility and persistence. Keep praying, trusting that God hears you and is working in your life. Join us at Lakeview Christian Church as we live out our mission to be the change in our community and beyond.
