A Devo a Day: 8

Luke 18

"9 Also He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: 

10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ 

13 And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise 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, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” 

There is something so simple and practical in this parable that I love. 

As 2013 comes to a close and I think about all that this year held, I want to stand before God like the Pharisee did but instead of boasting in all that I did for Him, I want to boast of all that He did for me! 

And He did amazing works in my life this year! 

• He provided me with amazing jobs that I love.

• He has blessed Corey and my relationship 

• He has done healing in many of my friend's lives as well as mine

• He has entrusted to me Ignition Youth Group and provided wonderful leaders and great kids

• He has financially made a way for me time and time again

• He gifted me with an affordable place to live

• He has gifted Corey recently with an affordable place for him to live

• He has gifted many in my life with the blessing of new life

• He has continued to unite my family

and on and on and on. 

As this new year comes I want to be boasting in the Lord and also choose a humble stance before God, believing in His grace where I have fallen short and for His strength in this coming year. 

Thank you Lord. As we welcome 2014 we boast in Your works in 2013 and thank you in advance for all that You will do this year. 

Amen.