Jesus spoke in many parables using stories and illustrations that even the simplest of people and children could understand. On one occasion Jesus was teaching on a subject that is very fitting for us today even in our culture.

How many times are we quick to judge and condemn others? In Matthew and Luke Jesus tells us that we should not judge or condemn others until we have looked at ourselves. He illustrates this point by saying that before we try to remove a speck in someone else's eye, we need to remove the plank that is in our own eye first so we can see clearly. He is saying that we are looking and judging others on small things, but we have much bigger things in our own hearts that could condemn us. Before we criticize others, we need to look at ourselves and remove what is not good, which may be our negative or bad attitude, hatred, jealousy, unkindness, pride, self-righteousness, impatience, and other negative thoughts or behavior. He actually called people hypocrites who didn’t judge themselves first.

 Jesus says to judge not, so that we will not be judged. When we judge others we will be judged the same way. How many times are we more harsh with others but want grace and mercy for ourselves? So does Jesus not want us to use good judgment when dealing with people who may seem dishonest or untrustworthy? God wants us to be wise and use good judgment. We are to look at the fruit of the person. What does this person produce? Do they have love, kindness, patience, and other good qualities? God looks at the heart and many times we look at the outer self. We may look at someone’s attractiveness, their social standing, their money, and what appears to be good. We have to rely on the Holy Spirit to help us when it comes to dealing with people. If someone is a bad influence on your life, don’t hang around with them. The Bible gives us guidance and tells us to guard our hearts and mind.

 What about others judging you? People are quick to judge and condemn and sometimes they can be your friends and family. Sometimes that person is you. Have you ever beaten yourself up emotionally or mentally because of mistakes or bad choices and behaviors? We all do, but thanks be to God, He knows your heart and He loves you so much. So whenever you want to criticize or condemn someone, look at yourself first. Clear your vision, so you can help others. If you are criticizing and condemning yourself, know that Jesus came to save and help you, not to condemn you. See yourself the way Jesus sees you, His child, forgiven, righteous through Him and deeply loved and highly favored.

Read the rest at https://litwithprayer.substack.com/p/clearing-your-vision?sd=fs