As is typical of Jesus, in this verse He goes right to the heart! I have to admit, I am one of those to whom Jesus is speaking. In fact, I believe all of us are guilty; it is part of our sin nature.
Added to my fallen state, or probably because of it, I am confused at times. Am I judging hypocritically, because I have the aforementioned log in my own eye that prevents me from seeing clearly? Or am I judging righteously according to His Word as referenced in John 7:24, “Stop judging by appearances, but judge with righteous judgment”?
Part of my own growth is attempting to answer these questions through assessing my own heart condition. What helps me to discern what is going on is this question: "What am I feeling when I judge?" I have learned to identify a ‘red flag’ anytime that I feel dismissive, uncaring, frustrated, or angry when I question someone's actions, how they are living, etc. When its banner is waving, I have learned to be curious and ask myself these questions:
• What unrealistic expectations do I have?
• If I weren't thinking that I were superior, what might I see from being in their shoes? How would I feel?
• What can I appreciate about this person?
I believe that one of the reasons Jesus addresses this issue is because self-centered judgment is not love. And without it, I am closed off to learning about another person whom God created and loves. In this condition, I cannot help anyone. Nor can I 'speak my truth in love’, since the listener will sense the judgment behind my words, no matter how well I articulate.
So what I continue to practice is asking God to reveal and remove the log in my eye so that I can see clearly what He sees in the other person. Only then will I know what they need. Sometimes it is a listening ear, guidance, a hug, and acceptance. Sometimes it may be a gentle rebuke. Only when I have His heart will I hold His perspective.
Please agree with me in prayer:
Lord, we confess that we can be so blind that we do not see our own condition. Please gift us with Godly sorrow that teaches us to acknowledge and repent of the log in our own eye. May we have discernment through the resurrection power of Your Spirit, which offers Life to a world in need. In Jesus Name, Amen!
Until next time, Blessings! ~Deb
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