Matthew 7:1-6
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
As we continue listening in to Jesus’ teaching on life in God’s Kingdom, read Matthew 7:1-6 noting anything that stands out or any questions that arise.
Studies have shown that our reactions to other people happen faster than we can rationally process, and our interpretations of other people’s actions are filtered through our previously constructed paradigms. To put it simply, we are ill-equipped to judge someone else’s behavior.
Through Jesus we’ve all been given abundant mercy and grace, and as followers of Jesus, giving mercy and grace to others is part of our calling.
Is there anyone you can think of who’s actions have caused you to feel critical? Picture yourself taking this person by the hand and leading them into the presence of Jesus. What might Jesus want to say to you about this person?
Read Matthew 7:1-6 again picturing what he describes in verses 3-5.
It’s humorous to think of a person with a two-by-four in their eye trying to extract a speck from the eye of someone else, and that is Jesus’ point.
If we neglect examining ourselves and fail to recognize the ways our words and actions wound others, we will never be able to help someone else become all that God intends them to be. We need the Holy Spirit and trusted friends to help us see our personal planks to which we are blind.
And conversely, no matter how self-aware we are, we can’t help someone who doesn’t want help. What we can do is bring them before Jesus daily in our prayers asking him to open their souls to receive his mercy and grace so they can walk in freedom.
As you end this time of meditation, read these words from Psalm 139 and make them your prayer:
“Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
Point out anything in me that offends you,
and lead me along the path of everlasting life.” Psalm 139:23-24
What might Jesus be inviting you to do or do differently today?
How will you respond to him?
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The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
