Steve Gaines

By Steve Gaines, Ph.D.

On the news recently we have seen a high-profile athlete’s infidelity exposed and his subsequent public apology. I pray that this man finds forgiveness from his family, but most importantly, from God.

There is a prayer that always, without exception, reaches the ear and heart of God. It consists of seven simple words: “Lord, be merciful to me, the sinner!” These words immediately attract God’s attention.

In Luke 18:13 Jesus addressed some high-profile people of His day—the Pharisees. They were self-righteous and arrogant, and they looked down on others with contempt. Jesus told them a parable about two men. One was a Pharisee who prayed a sophisticated prayer in which he elaborated about his “righteous” deeds like fasting and tithing, He thanked God that he was not like other people, especially a tax collector who was standing nearby.

The tax collector prayed differently. He knew he was a sinner, and he was unwilling even to lift his eyes to heaven. The Bible says this man beat upon his breast in earnest repentance. He confessed his sin, asked for mercy, and God graciously answered.

It doesn’t matter if the whole world has heard about your sin, or if it’s just between you and God. You need to go to Him like the tax collector did and ask for forgiveness. God resists the proud, but He gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). Do you need God’s mercy today? Ask for it and He will certainly answer!