[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.

[Jessica Belknap]

I am a dedicated and dynamic individual who is unafraid to confront challenges. I approach life with zeal and conviction; my faith is integral to my identity. While I strive to embody patience, I acknowledge that there are instances where circumstances test my resolve. I am conscious of the inclination to judge others and aim to avoid passing unjust scrutiny. I am not exempt from making judgments, and I seek forgiveness from God when I err in my assessments.

[Trae Johnson]

I would say that I am one to judge the outside appearance, but I still wait to see the inside of a personality before I decide if I like someone or not. There are some cases where I just know that I won’t get along with certain individuals, I work as a Correctional Officer and I feel I have a pretty good grasp of reading people. I also am a member of the Army and my job classification is 38B Civil Affairs Specialist. In the job field, we do a lot of negotiations, association matrixes, and link analysis work. I won’t get too in depth on the job, but reading people and situations is another huge part of that job too. I can admit that I have a hobby of people watching, it is simply apart of my everyday work both in my civilian career and military career.

[Erin Kesterson]

I would describe myself as a person who is always looking for a solution to fix a issue never be to be stressed over what is going on around me. I have taught my children that if you can’t fix an issue right then and there forget about it and come back. If there’s a will there is a way to fix it. I am a happy person always smiling and trying to get people to smile. I am the type to help anyone if I know them or not. I’m a firm believer that what you give is what god will bless me with and I have seen things brought back to me and others from actions they have done. I have a heart of gold, and I have a attitude. My friends would say I am sweet but mean Lovable but on edge hard working but playful and I am outgoing but relaxed, but most of all I am a confused and unreadable person that loves with everything inside me. If this confused you imagine being me and trying to everyday be blessed for being just who we are, and thankful God made me this complexed I am blessed and I love being me….

[Addison West]

I have definitely had many moments where I’ve been quick to judge others, especially at times when I am stressed or upset. However, reflecting on biblical themes like forgiveness and reconciliation has helped me change my perspective. For instance, when a classmate made a mistake that affected our project, my initial reaction was to point out their flaws. But then I remembered the importance of forgiveness and letting go. I chose to overlook the mistake and instead offered help to fix it. This not only improved our working relationship but also brought a sense of peace and collaboration. I was able to release the negative emotions and focus on the positive aspects of our teamwork. It reminded me to always consider my own imperfections before judging others. This allowed us to work closer together but also reminded me to be patient and understanding, considering my own flaws before judging others.

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