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  PRAYER THAT PREVAILS - LUKE 18:14
  by Bernard Fell
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Summary: True prayer requires humility and repentance, not pride and
self-righteousness.

Topics: "Humility Before God", "True Repentance"
Scripture References: Psalm 51:17, Proverbs 16:5, Luke 18:14, James 4:10, 1 Peter 5:6

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DESCRIPTION
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Bernard Fell preaches on the parable of the proud Pharisee and the
humble Publican in Luke 18:14, emphasizing the importance of humility
before God. He contrasts the self-righteousness of the Pharisee with the
repentant heart of the Publican, showing that true justification comes
from a contrite spirit. God exalts those who humble themselves before
Him, while He abases the proud in heart and ways, revealing that our
true nature is seen clearly in God's sight.

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CONTENT
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Every one that exalteth himself shall be abased;

and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Luke 18:14

Two men resort to Temple court

With one desire to pray;

From diff'rent walks of life they came

By chance to meet that day.

The proud, self-righteous Pharisee

With feigned lips drew nigh;

His heart from God was far away,

And heav'n heard not his cry.

The Publican afar off stood

With mournful, downcast eyes;

Upon a trembling breast he smote--

"Here, Lord, the trouble lies!"

Yea, more than mercy he besought,

His plea could never fail,

"For me, a sinner in Thy sight,

O let the blood avail."

Which of the twain was justified

Before God's holy throne?

'Twas he with broken, contrite heart;

Jesus the truth made known.

The humble sinner who repents,

God from the pit will raise;

But He will punish and abase

The proud in heart and ways.

We are, you see, just what we are

In God's unsullied light;

Not what we say, or do, or pray,

In man's oft clouded sight!

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/bernard-fell/prayer-that-prevails-luke-1814/
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