Devotional
We often think we’re better than we actually are. The rich young man in Mark 10 seemed to have it all together – wealth, morality, and even humility. Yet when he called Jesus ‘good teacher,’ Christ immediately redirected him: only God is truly good. This wasn’t Jesus being difficult; it was Him lovingly exposing a fundamental truth about human nature. We all have blind spots about our own goodness. We compare ourselves to others and feel pretty confident about our moral standing. But Jesus sees past our carefully constructed self-image to the reality of our hearts. The line between good and evil doesn’t run between us and ‘those people’ – it runs right down the middle of our own hearts. This realization isn’t meant to discourage us, but to free us. When we stop trying to prove our goodness and acknowledge our need, we open ourselves to receive the grace that Jesus freely offers. True spiritual growth begins with honest self-assessment, not self-promotion.
Bible Verse
‘As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone.”‘ – Mark 10:17-18
Reflection Question
What areas of your life do you feel most confident about morally, and how might Jesus see those areas differently than you do?
Quote
“No one is as good as they think they are.”
Prayer
Lord, help me see myself honestly, not through the lens of comparison or pride. Give me the humility to acknowledge my need for Your grace in every area of my life.