[Jessica Jagerson]

MATTHEW 7 – SPECK IN YOUR EYE

³ 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? ⁴ Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? Matthew 7:3-4

I am surprised as to how so many people are often concerned with what everyone else is doing. For example, a family member may fail to do his or her part only to be reminded by that one family member of their shortcomings.  Or perhaps a friend forgets what may be obvious to everyone else for only an acquaintance to quickly judge them without no knowledge of the circumstance.  No matter the scenario, people tend to be quick to judge and ridicule while overlooking the obvious; the speck in their own eye!

The reality is that every single one of us possesses faults that we could resolve if we only spent more time fixing them. This is a much more profitable way to spend our time versus focusing on our Neighbor’s shortcomings.

In this verse, Jesus is quick to remind His listeners that we ought to consider the speck in our own eye before pointing out the speck in our Neighbor’s eye. Why, because until we get to heaven, we’re going to be prone to falling short, in almost every aspect of our being.

CHALLENGE

How would you personally describe yourself? Are you quick to be patient or fast to judge? Are you likely to point out people’s faults or one to overlook them graciously? Remember my friend; it’s likely that whatever speck you may point out, you may likely have a beam in your own eye. Therefore, be quick to be patient and spend your time with a personal evaluation. In doing so, it’s likely that we may see others’ actions in a more positive light.

[Lenay Nichols]

Personally, I would describe myself as someone who is still learning patience. There are times when I am understanding and willing to give people grace, but there are also moments when I catch myself judging too quickly. It is often easier to notice what someone else is doing wrong than to stop and reflect on my own actions and attitudes.
I can admit at times I need to slow down and look inward instead of immediately focusing on others faults, however I am a human and I am a work in progress. When I take time for personal evaluation, I realize that I also make mistakes and need grace just as much as anyone else.
Because of this, I have been more patient and understanding with others. Choosing patience over judgment has been helping me see people in a more optimistic light and respond with kindness rather than criticism.

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