"Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank Thee, that I am not... even as this publican.... 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. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other" (Luke 18:10-14).
Prevailing prayer displays the key
That haughty hearts can never find
That's guarded by humility
And glory to our God in mind.
Many volumes upon our shelves
May now condone the way we pray,
Yet our opinion of ourselves
May be the stone that blocks our way.
The pharisaic prayer thus failed
Because of pride he held within.
The praying publican prevailed
Through true repentance of his sin.
Teach us, Lord, to pray aright,
As You examine us with grace.
Chase the darkness with Your light,
So pride may find no hiding place!
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