To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody 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 up and prayed about himself: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men—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 everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:9-14 NIV)
As I studied the Pharisees, I was reminded that their righteousness was self-seeking. They were full of pride and looked with disdain on all who did not meet up to their standards. They thought so highly of themselves that they neglected to give glory and honor to God. Instead, even their prayers were praises to their name and for their glory.
Asking whether I am truly seeking to glorify God or if I am seeking my own glory and praise would be a excellent way to see whether I am living in the Spirit. If my motive is self-glorification, even if I am doing what externally appears good, it will not please God. My service must be done in his power and for his glory to be acceptable worship. If not, I am one of the people who is a lover of themselves…having a form of godliness but denying its power (2 Timothy 3:2-5).
Questioning my motives is extremely difficult. This speaks directly to the heart of the matter. Directly to my heart and what I believe matters. When my motives, along with my outward actions, are right and pure, then and only then will I be glorifying God. This is true and right worship.
I read a quote that reminds me who alone deserves glory and praise. “It’s ludicrous for any Christian to believe that he or she is the worthy object of public worship; it would be like the donkey carrying Jesus into Jerusalem believing the crowds were cheering and laying down their garments for him.” (Charles Colson)
Today King Jesus, I pray that I will carry you into the world and that the crowds will cheer and worship you and you alone. I pray that I can remember that I am a created being and you are the Creator. I am, in a sense, just the donkey that carries you among the people. How wonderful to have the opportunity to carry you and your goodness and love to the world. Thank you for allowing me to serve you. Let me be faithful to serve with a humble heart.