Wisdom For The Day Devotional 7 May 2026 By Bishop Mike Okonkwo – Self-Righteousness Will Not Help You
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TOPIC: Self-Righteousness Will Not Help You (TREM Devotional 7 May 2026)
“The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.” – Luke 18:11 KJV
MESSAGE
According to the account in the book of Luke chapter 18:9-14, two men went up into the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a publican. A Pharisee is a church goer who believes in the law, believes in obeying rules, and believes in self-righteousness and self-performance.
The Pharisee stood and said: “……. God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are…… (Luke 18:11 KJV). I am better than Sister Susan and Brother James. If no one goes to heaven, I should go because, at least, I have nine over ten. This one has zero. I am not as other men. I am not an extortioner, unjust, or adulterer.
Even this publican, he is known in the whole town. I fast in the week. I give twice of the entire tithe. I come to church every day. I am the pastor’s personal assistant. I am in the choir. I am committed more than anyone in this church.
“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.” (Luke 18:13 KJV). And the scripture declares: “…. this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for everyone that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” (Luke 18:14 KJV).
Beloved, only God’s grace can save you. Nothing else can save you. There is no way you can be qualified before Him, if not for His grace.
When you go around brandishing your qualification, you are insulting God. Because without you, He already died for your sins. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for the ungodly. He died for sinners while we were enemies of God. He reconciled us, not because we did anything. It was His prerogative. It was his idea.
So, stop brandishing your qualifications. Just receive and enjoy what Jesus has done.
FURTHER READING
Luke 18:9-14, Romans 5:8.
Wisdom For The Day Devotional was written by Dr. Mike Okonkwo; Is the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM); a versatile man of God with over 30 years of dedicated service unto the Lord.
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Lord Jesus, come into my life. I accept You as my Lord and Personal Saviour. I believe in my heart You died and rose from the dead to save me. Thank You Lord for saving me, in Jesus’ name Amen.
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