When has my focus on the shortcomings of others blinded me to my own?
This is a difficult question to answer. If we are truly blind to our own shortcomings, how can we even answer it? Unfortunately, our realization of such times when we are blind is mostly in hindsight. Any time we focus on someone else’s shortcomings, we are judging them as being flawed. We are placing ourselves in a superior place by comparison.
The Bible includes many reminders for us when we find ourselves in these dark places of judgment:
- Don’t judge anyone by your human limitations. Only God’s judgments are flawless. (JOHN 8:15-16)
- Don’t be quick to condemn someone else’s actions. God is patient, but He doesn’t overlook anyone’s disobedience, especially yours. (ROMANS 2:1-5)
- Don’t attack each other. Try to be a good example so others won’t copy your bad behavior. (ROMANS 14:13).
- Don’t speak destructive things about others. Are you qualified to perfectly judge someone else? (JAMES 4:11-12)
When you find yourself in a place where you are about to judge someone, instead consider this prayer:
Dear Lord,
Instead of focusing on the shortcomings of others,
help me seek your grace and a greater sensitivity to others.
Allow my interior life of prayer to define me
and shape the true essence of my character
as you would have me.
Amen.
