You Need To focus on The Speck Before The Plank
Devotional
Scripture: "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and never notice the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite! First take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will be able to see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye." (Matthew 7:3-5 NLT)
Controversy
The following passage presents a thought-provoking paradox: Humans tend to judge others quickly, criticize their flaws, past, sin, and mistakes, and judge their appearance while remaining oblivious to our own. This universal human tendency can lead to significant conflict, division, and even hypocrisy. This is why Jesus not only instructs us but encourages us to acknowledge our shortcomings before being ready to condemn others of theirs and be able to assist others genuinely.
The Plank in Our Eye
The image of a plank in one's eye is a powerful metaphor. It suggests that our faults are often so large and prominent that they impede our vision. We cannot see our problems, so how can we see those of others when ours blinds and hinders our vision? This humbling and weighty realization can lead to a profound transformation through greater self-awareness and humility.
The Call to Action
The passage calls us to a radical and immediate shift in perspective. Instead of focusing on the faults of others, we are to begin with ourselves. We must confront our sins, shortcomings, and hypocrisy. Only then can we truly help others. This is not to say that we should ignore the faults of others, but rather that we should approach them with a deep sense of compassion, understanding, and a willingness to admit our failings. Some of us are so self-righteous we forget that we once may have had faults and sins and possibly could have today. We look down on others and judge instead of recognizing there is nothing we did to receive the salvation of God. It was freely given!
Every day, when we wake up, we must wash our faces and remove the speck from our eyes. Let’s do the same as children of God. Wake up, confess your sins, and be ready to go through the day with the love of the Father leading you.
A Challenge to Self-Examination
Today, I challenge you to examine your own life. Are you quick to judge others or approach them with compassion and understanding? Are you aware of your shortcomings, or do you overlook them? Take time to assess yourself honestly, and then, with newfound humility, seek to address the plank in your eye. Only then will you be able to see clearly and truly help others? Remember, the key to helping others is first to help yourself.
