THE PLANK IN MY EYE

As a follower of Christ it is not my job to judge others. I know that I am a sinner just like everyone else. My sin is as great as that of Jack the Ripper, a member of ISIS, Judas, Iscariot or someone who leads a different lifestyle than I do.

God does not measure our sin. Sin is sin, no matter how great or small.  We’re all guilty and have fallen short of His expectations. It’s all the same to Him, but I have the promise that I am forgiven no matter how bad I’ve been in the past. That doesn’t mean I have a free pass to continue sinning.

Because of God’s grace in sending His own Son to pay the price  of our salvation, our lives should change.   Out of thanksgiving for such gift,  He expects us to be obedient and stay away from things that draw us back into temptation, but even that requires us to depend on Him.  He has a much greater plan for our lives here on earth. All we need to do is stay nourished by His Word, walk in His ways and follow Him.

Being a Christian does not guarantee that I will be sinless, but it contains so much more.  I’ve been freed from the bondage of sin – my sins are forgiven  – the gift comes with no cost on my part – there are no strings attached – I am guaranteed a place in heaven after my death.  All the good deeds and prayers will not make any of that happen.  It’s all about God and His love for me.

Because of my human nature and inherited sin, I will continue to fall short. Because of my Savior I can look forward to eternal life.

Help me Lord, to live the way you want me to live. Keep me from judging others, but show me how to share your Word with those who crave salvation.  Through your Word, the Bible, show them that there is a way out.  I am not in a position to judge them. Only You can do that. Help me simply direct them to you.  Amen!

 James 2:12-13 “So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty. For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.”