Two people went to pray in the temple. Luke 18:10-14.

One was a Pharisee and the other a Publican!

While the Publican’s prayer was justified, the prayer of the Pharisee was condemned. Why? What was so special about the Publican’s prayer?

THE PUBLICAN’S PRAYER:

And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. Luke‬ ‭18:13‬

We can see 4 important aspects in the Publican’s prayer:

• He stood afar off inside the temple - This was because the Publican acknowledged his sinful life before God — he admitted his position and stated as he was.
• He was unwilling to even lift his eyes to heaven - He did this because he understood his unworthiness in God’s presence. Perhaps, he lived an unjust life like Zacchaeus.
• He kept striking his chest - This is a sign of deep sorrow. He was crying out to God, desperately seeking for forgiveness.
• He prayed, God be merciful to me a sinner!

Humility was evident in the Publican’s prayer and therefore he went back to his house being justified by God. But the Pharisee, even though he religiously followed every law, yet, he failed to humbly pray to God. His prayer was rather self-righteous and that’s why he went back condemned.

God looks into our hearts and knows who we really are! He is an impartial God and those calling out to Him from the depth of their hearts are sure to be heard. ❤️😊

Be blessed 💕