It seems that we have become expert analysts and critics of others. We are very capable of pointing out potential pitfalls for others, weakening commitment in our brothers or sisters, or glaring deficiencies in the lives of fellow believers.
I wonder what would happen if we looked at ourselves that closely? This is precisely what Paul told Timothy to do. “Pay close attention to yourself…” (I Timothy 4:16). It is probably what Jesus had in mind when he said to get rid of the beams in our eyes before we bother with the specks in others.
Question: What means can we use to pay close attention to ourselves and judge ourselves in relationship to the character of Christ?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I have to ask myself, "How would Jesus handle this? What would Jesus say here? Is this a gentle, loving thing to say? What are my motives? Am I loving this person as Jesus would?" Thank God, His mercies are new every morning! Every day has the potential for failure but nothing is impossible with God!! He loves me, still.
ReplyDeleteOne 'means' would just be getting to know the Holy Spirit better, at the same time, marching straight forward in life. By marching 'straight forward' I would not be watching or criticizing my brother on the right or my sister the left.I would be only paying attention,to my own steps. I must stay in step with Jesus. That's for sure!
ReplyDeleteBob Evans :->
Sometimes I feel as if my inability to accept others is rooted in my inability to accept myself. Being critical of my own shortcomings is for me, as natural as breathing. My constant struggle to view myself through the Father's eyes, remains at the forefront of my struggle with being critical of others.
ReplyDeleteThat may very well be the key. To understand and accpet the grace of God for our own lives so that we then can extend that grace to others is something we all need to experience. It seems that the woman who had been forgiven much by Jesus was able to in the words of Christ, "love much." Maybe we just need a new revealtion of the vastness of His grace and mercy.
ReplyDelete