“Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?” Matthew 7:3 ESV. This lesson from Jesus not only points out hypocrisy; it also reveals a bit of his sense of humor. A “LOG” in your eye?! Funny. However, judging other people while lying to myself about my own spirituality are both very serious issues. Focusing on the faults of others while ignoring or hiding our own is dangerous and paralyzes our spiritual growth. Grigor Narekatsi offered a great picture of our human condition: “I lay open the grief of my soul, which is not totally dead to the world, but is not truly alive to God.” Good stuff. So, my attention must shift from needless and harmful comparisons and remain laser-focused on the man in the mirror. LORD, pull down every stronghold of falsehood in my soul. Awaken truth and light within me that I may be a beacon of hope for others.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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