Jesus is concerned! He does not want us to have a critical spirit toward others — especially other brothers and sisters in Christ. He does not want us to judge their motives. After all, we can't know another person's heart; only God can. When we are unfairly critical, overly harsh, and unduly judgmental, we must remember that God will use that same standard on us that we have used on others. I don't know about you, but I need grace. So do those I love and those with whom I fellowship in Jesus. Plus, I am trying to win those who don't know Jesus by treating and speaking to them "with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15). So, I will try very hard to be as gracious toward others as God has been gracious with me. This doesn't mean I compromise on personal holiness; it just means I'm motivated by love.
My Prayer...
Forgive me, Abba Father, for the times that I've been far more critical of others than I should be. Arouse my passion to be gracious toward others so they can see your grace, mercy, and kindness shining through me. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
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Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Friday, July 2, 2004
"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There...."
"Dear Father, Keep us from turning back to any weak and beggarly things. Help us to live in the glorious freedom brought by the Son of God. Let Christ..."
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