October 31 - He Flatters Himself Too Much

Today's Reading: 
Leviticus 25:47-27:13
John 7:1-30
Psalm 36:1-12
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Focus Verses:
Psalm 36:1-2
1 An oracle is within my heart concerning the sinfulness of the wicked: There is no fear of God before his eyes. 2 For in his own eyes he flatters himself too much to detect or hate his sin.

Insight:
Wickedness results from a failed view of God and a failed view of self. Irreverence and disregard for God leads to sin. Those who are arrogant and proud are blind to their own sin and hate.

Response and Action:
I will cultivate a reverent view of God and a humble view of myself. I will take time to worship God each day. Every morning, I will confess my sin and humble myself before God. I will participate in Christian community and conversation in order to gain self-perspective. I will be careful to guard against flattering myself or seeking the praise of others. I will guard against arrogance and selfishness. I will acknowledge my weaknesses and my need for God's direction and help. I will read the Scriptures and prayerfully live in the ways and words of Jesus.

O God, help me to humble myself and to honor you. Give me eyes that see both my need and your gracious provision. Give me a tongue that is ready to both confess my sin and to sing your praise. Give me a heart that is ready to worship and ready to surrender. Save me from sin and wickedness. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Spiritual Formation Verses: 1 Peter 5:6-7
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Resources:
Why Sin Matters: The Surprising Relationship between Our Sin and God's Grace
by Mark R. McMinn