An Effort of Vanity

Jesus said that we are not to pray in vain repetition, thinking that because of our many words we will get what we want.

You must understand that the reason for this is the same as "earning" or working to get what we desire from God. For example, because I pray to God "I need a new truck" 400 times, He will give me a truck.

This is works. An effort on my part to "earn" favor with God, something He now owes me, like a wage. Jesus said it doesn't work that way. Not for salvation, forgiveness or even a blessing.

We can't earn favor with God, other than by trusting in Him.

What works are you still doing to feel holy?

Do you pray regularly thinking you are pleasing God?

Do you tithe figuring to be owed favor?

Are you kind to others only to earn points?

Are you posting Christian memes of Facebook?

All these actions are good, but I can tell you, that if you speak or boast to others or yourself about all the great things you do for God, you are not earning squat. Jesus said that.

The only thing this "holy" effort does is make you feel better than the guy who doesn't.

That self-elevation seems very similar to a heart that says "I will ascend..."