This world would be a better place if people were more humble. There is so much pride and arrogance out there. Your attitude matters, and it can make a big difference in how your life turns out. Jesus tells us that if we exalt ourselves, we will be humbled, but we will be exalted if we humble ourselves.
Luke 18:13-14
But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ 14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Which One is Justified?
Jesus tells the parable of two guys who come to the temple to pray. One is a self-righteous Pharisee who is impressed with everything he does to be holy while looking down on the second guy, the tax collector. The Pharisee’s prayer is full of pride, while the tax collector’s prayer is one of humility. Jesus then asks the disciples which one went home justified?
You Aren’t Worthy
Your attitude matters. If you are cocky and can’t admit you are wrong, it will cause you problems down the line. Instead, if you are humble and don’t have a high opinion of yourself, it will benefit you. Jesus wants you to be like the tax collector who came to pray and best his chest because he knew he wasn’t worthy of the mercy that God was extending him. When you take the approach, you accept your sinfulness and acknowledge your need for a savior.
Your Attitude Matters
If you exalt yourself, expect to be humbled. Instead, be humble and let God exalt you. Taking that path may be difficult at first, but once you see others exalting themselves fall, you will be glad you did—your attitude matters. The Bible says to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. This is what humility looks like. You understand you are not worthy of grace but are so grateful it is given to you.