Do not judge, or you too will be judged.
For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? Matt. 7:1–3
Lord Jesus, when I rubbed my irritated eyes this morning, I quickly realized it wasn’t “morning eyes,” but a rough-hewn board stuck there. Just because I don’t throw things or yell doesn’t mean I’m not a critical person. Condescending smugness is just a synonym for clanging cymbals (1 Cor. 13:1).
Have mercy on me, Jesus. You are so forbearing, kind, and gracious. I’ve become critical of critical people; a judge of those who render quick judgment of others; cynical about cynics, sarcastic about those who spew sarcasm, and a stereotyper of those who stereotype.
Alas, we will become like that which bugs us the most. We can’t walk around a garbage pit without starting to smell like rotting stuff.
As chief cardiologist and ophthalmologist bring your grace and truth to bear in my heart and eyes, Jesus. I want to love as you love, and see as you see—especially in this culture of ramped-up meanness and tribalism, caustic one-liners and dismissive generalizations.
I don’t want people to feel pressure to change when they are around me. Nor do I want them to feel indifference and disengagement from me. Since you do call us to help one another with our “specks of sawdust,” help me be a first responder to the life-giving rebukes from friends—a humble recipient of feedback.
Give me great joy in anticipating, welcoming, and responding to the work of the Holy Spirit in my heart, each and every day. Jesus, we are SO looking forward to your return. So very Amen I pray, in your perfect and present name.
