My “Me” Problem

My "Me" Problem

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“To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’ “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted,”

‭Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭9‬-‭14‬, NIV‬‬.

I must admit after reading these verses I began to think, “That used to be me!” I was the Pharisee praying. I used to believe I was better than most other people. That I had a special, unique friendship with Jesus.

Then God showed me that He has a special relationship with all who come to Him. He showed me that my arrogance was keeping me from the true discovery of a lifetime. That if I were to humble myself, I would indeed find a more deeply satisfying relationship than ever thought possible.

And Jesus was right. But it took an act of the Holy Spirit to move me into a place of complete surrender. I didn’t have it within me to understand or comprehend the depth of God’s love, or the depth of my disloyalty.

It was His love that woke up my prideful heart, enabling me to seek Him with all that I am.

I had gone through a difficult trial, being falsely accused, yet never given an opportunity to defend myself. As I sought God, He said, “Now that I have your attention…I have something else to talk to you about, you are self-righteous.”

I can remember that day so clearly, though it was many years ago. I was literally on my knees, thanking our Father for His Holy Spirit who reveals my sin in love. I didn’t feel condemned. Naturally I was embarrassed, and full of repentance, but I also felt deeply loved without shame.

God loves us completely. He desires to have a relationship with us, which includes a Father’s joy and a Father’s correction. He is one hundred percent for us. He’s our biggest cheerleader and our coach. Yet, He’s so much more.   

He is the Creator of everything. Since life doesn’t just happen, why do we believe everything we see around us just happened? God intentionally planned, designed and executed the cosmos and the earth we stand upon, and everything in it. This brilliant Father also cares about His creation, that includes us.

In fact we rank higher than anything else created, other than angels, because we were made in His image.

Yes, God, this beautiful, wonderful, creative, awesome God, loves us and wants a relationship with us.

Do you want one with Him?

(Please always feel welcome to comment.)

Father,

I am speechless to put into words my gratitude towards You. You are not only the great I AM, as You told Moses, but You are also my tender Father who loves me. Me, who is slow to think, yet quick to speak.

You love all eight billion of us on this tender planet. Teach us to know You, and love You in return. You are so worthy.

Thank You for all You have done to save Your planet, Your people and to build Your kingdom. We want to help You anyway we are able, in order to give You thanks and glory Your name.

Amen.