You hypocrite! First remove the beam from your own eye, and then you can see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
Matthew 7:5 NET

I have read Jesus’ admonitions in Matthew 7:1-6 many times and have interpreted them as, “quit meddling and mind your own business”. As our devotional team discussed this passage, it became apparent that Jesus doesn’t advocate becoming an introspective isolationist in order to avoid the label of hypocrite. He describes the godly grace, patience and humility necessary to obtain victory over destructive behavior.

Think of this. When a speck of something lands in your eye, isn’t your first impulse to get rid of it ASAP? The longer it remains in your eye, the greater the potential damage. The fix could be simple but you might also need help. 

In preparing this week’s devotionals, our team has considered Matthew 7:1-6 as well as other passages where Jesus demonstrates how to best come alongside those experiencing trouble — or not. A brief review of what my other team members covered earlier this week:

  • Monday: Observation/Discernment, before involvement. (Matthew 7:6.)
  • Tuesday: Self-examination. (Matthew 7:3-5)
  • Wednesday: Curiosity/Good questions — questions Jesus asked. (John 5:6, et al.)
  • Thursday: Active listening. (James 1:19-20.)

Ignoring other members of our community of faith who are experiencing distress is not a godly strategy, nor is gossip about those who are faltering. To further the Kingdom of God, prayer is our first order of business. After listening to the Holy Spirit as illustrated in Matthew 7:1-6, and receiving permission to proceed, let’s offer encouragement and help — most valued by a suffering brother or sister in Christ. This does not have to be an agonizing process nor a lifetime commitment to “mend” the one in distress. Did the Good Samaritan overanalyze or overextend his role? 

Subduing destructive forces is part of defeating the schemes of our unseen adversary and builds up the Body of Christ. 

by Kathleen Petersen

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