Justified by Mercy, Not by Merit

Luke 18:14
I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Thought:
Jesus shocked his hearers by declaring that the despised tax collector went home justified while the respected Pharisee did not. Justification is God’s legal declaration that a guilty sinner is righteous in his sight. This declaration does not come to those who present impressive resumes. It comes to those who come empty handed and throw themselves on the mercy of God. The one who seemed religiously successful remained under condemnation. The one who only had a cry for mercy went home declared right with God.

This flips the script on how we usually see things. We live in a culture that exalts self promotion, performance, and personal achievement. But in the kingdom of God, the path to being lifted up is to bow low. Those who exalt themselves in pride will be humbled. Those who humble themselves before the Lord will be lifted by his grace. Ask yourself today, what gives me confidence before God? Is it my reputation, my record, or my religious background? Or is it the finished work of Christ alone? Humility opens the door to grace. Lay down your pride and receive the joy of knowing that your standing with God rests on Jesus, and not on you.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you that justification is not earned by my effort but given by your grace. I renounce any confidence in my own goodness, and I humble myself before you. Lift me up by your mercy and let my heart rest in your declaration of righteousness over me because of your blood. Keep me from pride and teach me to walk in lowliness and gratitude. In Jesus’ name, Amen.