The Parable of The Pharisee and The Tax Collector
Luke 18:14
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.
Story summary
In this family devotional from The Parable of The Pharisee and The Tax Collector, Greybobby and friends compete for a Good Citizen Award. Bart and Sheila think that they’ll win even if they aren’t nice, but and ultimately learn a hard lesson about remaining humble.
Luke 18:14
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.
What Did We Learn?
- Jesus told a story about a Pharisee who bragged to God about how good he was and a tax collector who humbly asked God for mercy.
- Jesus said it was the tax collector, not the Pharisee, who went home right with God.
- We shouldn't look down on others or brag about how good we are. Instead, we should admit our sins and ask God for mercy.
- The good news is that Jesus came to save sinners like us! We don't earn God's love by being better than someone else.
- We trust in Jesus, who forgives us and helps us love others.
- Humility helps us to admit we need help, but pride keeps us from admitting we aren't what we think we are, and that we need help.
- Let's be the kind of people who ask for help.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your mercy and love.
Forgive us when we think we're better than others or brag about the good things we do.
Help us to be humble, admit our sins, and ask for Your forgiveness.
Thank You for sending Jesus to save sinners like us.
Help us trust in Him and show kindness to others.
In Jesus' Name we pray,
Amen.
Thank You for Your mercy and love.
Forgive us when we think we're better than others or brag about the good things we do.
Help us to be humble, admit our sins, and ask for Your forgiveness.
Thank You for sending Jesus to save sinners like us.
Help us trust in Him and show kindness to others.
In Jesus' Name we pray,
Amen.
Discussion Questions
- Have you ever thought that you were better than others, or bragged about the good things you’ve done?
- How does remembering what Jesus has done for us on the cross help us stay humble?