This week we took a deep look at the difference between the attitude of the Pharisee and that of the Tax Collector. The difference really comes down to the heart of the matter. The Pharisee thought he was something, he tithes, fasts and is not a sinner. Yet, he failed to recognize that apart from God, none of us are anything. Where as the Tax Collector came to the realization that God desires from all of us. "Forgive me God, I'm a sinner!"
God desires for us to be people of repentance. To realize how far from perfect we are and how much we really NEED God. James 2:10 tells us that we are all in the same boat, one sin made us guilty of breaking the whole law. Romans 3:23 says that we have ALL sinned, and 1 John 1:10 even tells us that if we say we are with out sin, we are liars.
Repentance is the turning away from sin, to follow God (Acts 3:19). It is more than just being sorry, it's a choice to follow God and live by His example. "Be Holy as I am Holy," God told his people. (1 Peter 1:16) It does not mean we will be perfect without sin, but it does mean we are going to make every attempt to be the kind of people God wants us to be.
My challenge for you this week is to take some time, write in a journal, who is God asking you to be? As a father, mother, grandparent, child, church member, city dweller, neighbor or friend, what kind of person is God desiring for you to be?
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