Re-Center Around God
Galatians 6:1
“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” ~ Apostle Paul
Matthew 7:5
“first take the plank out of your own eye; then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” ~ Jesus
Pondering Point
As people of God, we are called to judge those inside the religious establishment, BUT – and I repeat as a pre-caution – BUT we should do so GENTLY. We should also do this without a condemning spirit. If you cannot remove the plank of a condemning spirit from your eye, you are not equipped to judge your brother or sister. So, let’s review our own lives in light of these concepts:
Review
Review the week. Have I been judging those outside the church inappropriately? Have I been judging others inside the church with a condemning spirit? Have I been hiding from the judgment of others?
Repent if Necessary
You may find a need to repent of judgmental attitudes toward those inside or outside of the religious establishment. You may need to repent of hiding your sin in pride or due to fear of judgment from others.
Return (as necessary)
Come to God who desires to forgive in Christ. Come to Jesus, who came not to condemn but to save. Ask for help to overcome that which has been plaguing you in your life as a disciple. To not be afraid to seek support and help from a brother or sister in Christ who will deal gently with your soul.
Sermon on the Mount Video Series
Episode 9
Wisdom in Relationships
Watch a short video that explains Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 7:1-12 about not judging others, throwing pearls to pigs, and dealing with the plank in your eye.
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 103:1-6
- Praise the Lord, my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name. - Praise the Lord, my soul,
and forget not all his benefits— - who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases, - who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion, - who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. - The Lord works righteousness
and justice for all the oppressed.
Read the verses of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask Him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Teaching or Command of God
Psalm 37:4a
Take delight in the LORD…
The Promise
Psalm 37:4b
… and he will give you the desires of your heart
Pondering Point
What would being renewed like the eagle mean for you? Go ahead – pray to God for such a blessing.