JUNE 17
Matthew 7:1- “Judge not, that ye be not judged.”
Please remember to read “My Utmost for His Highest” for Today
Every wrong I assess in others reveals some mirrored weakness to see.
Every measuring rod spoken in judgement other folk might notice in me.
My criticisms always seem valid, but I am revealing familiar thoughts.
Because what I recognize in others reveals thoughts my superiority bought.
Nothing is sacred to the critic. No accomplishment holds enough finesse.
Superiority controls the closed mind while perfectionists are overly stressed!
Forgive me Lord, for being critical. Forgive barbed condemnations alone.
May I learn to rest in Your Omnipotence making changes You condone.
If I notice a weakness in others, may I be alert to Your holiness rules.
While Your Spirit, who is my teacher, guides me to forgive and offers the tools.
© 2003- Marlene D. Bergman
Ponder or Journal-An old Indian proverbs declares: “Never criticize another until you have walked a mile in his moccasins.” Think about a time when you were critical recently. Did you have all the facts or did you make assumptions? Think about a recent criticism you have received. How did it make you feel? What became stifled within? Note the difference position makes. Are you too critical of yourself? Why? Perhaps forgiveness and healing needs to be addressed. Journal your journey from a critical spirit. Note that the anecdote for criticism is gratitude, appreciation, encouragement and blessing. Lack of criticism is a wonderful gift to offer the Lord.
Dear Lord, Forgive me for the times that I have criticized others, especially when I did not know all the details. Help me to forgive myself and make holiness a priority. I know that dealing with my own sinfulness will keep me so busy that I will not have time to pass judgement on others. Forgive me for the pompous attitude I have carried as a critic. I know that criticism is sometimes my feeble attempt to make me look “good” in the eyes of others. Help me Lord, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.