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     You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? Rom. 2:1-4

Heavenly Father, much more than greater discipline and much more than increased knowledge, I need your Spirit’s work in my heart. This is just one more Scripture reminding me of how much I need the gospel. The call to love others as Jesus loves me keeps driving me to you for more grace and for the power of the gospel. I readily acknowledge that I cannot change myself.

Meditating on this passage has convicted me about being way too selective in my love for broken people. I’m a selective lover. I’m not an equal opportunity dispenser of your compassion. It’s not difficult for me to shower the riches of your kindness, tolerance, and patience on people whose sins and struggles are like mine. But I’m self-righteous and judgmental toward people who deal with brokenness and temptations different than mine. Though understandable, it’s not excusable. Have mercy on me, for the extending of your mercy through me. No one has appointed me to be judge and jury. I’m not the boss or king of anybody. Forgive me when I take up a scorecard of criticism rather than a towel of servanthood.

Thank you for being such a kind and patient God. May your non-stop kindness lead me repent of my sin more quickly and more deeply. When I leak passive-aggressive anger, it’s no more pleasing to you than those who are more direct and loud in expressing their frustrations and disappointments. My self-righteous arrogance is just as offensive to you as the cynicism of the most secular journalist. My work-a-holism and busyness are just as much of a drug as the alcohol and pornography of others. My heterosexual lust is just as broken as who struggle with homosexual temptations and entanglements. Father, these are just a few things that come to mind. I know there’s more.

Lord Jesus, you willingly took the judgment I deserve on the cross—the fullness of God’s righteous wrath. And now you love me with the fullness of compassion, acceptance, and delight. The greatest non sequitur in life is when I show contempt for the riches of God’s kindness, tolerance, and patience. I am a mere human, greatly beloved, but merely a man utterly dependent upon your mercy and grace. Deepen my repentance and deepen my compassion for fellow broken sinners. So very Amen I pray, in your righteous and loving name.

 


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