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“Counseling through the Word” Devotional: Facing Your Own Shortcomings

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“Counseling through the Word” Devotional: Facing Your Own Shortcomings

Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7:3-5 is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-examination. It’s easy to point out the faults in others, but much harder to confront our own shortcomings. Yet, Jesus calls us to do just that. Before we can help others, we must first address the sin in our own lives. This passage encourages us to approach others with humility, recognizing that we, too, are in need of grace.

Scripture: Matthew 7:3-5

“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? 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? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.”

Devotional Thought: Facing Your Shortcomings

The imagery Jesus uses is striking—trying to remove a speck from someone else’s eye while ignoring the log in your own. It’s an exaggerated picture, but it drives home a vital truth: we often overlook our own sins while focusing on the faults of others. This can lead to a judgmental attitude, where we elevate ourselves above others instead of recognizing that we all fall short of God’s standards.

Facing your own shortcomings is not about self-condemnation, but about humility and honesty before God. When you acknowledge your own need for grace, you can approach others with compassion rather than criticism. This doesn’t mean ignoring sin in others, but addressing it in a way that reflects the love and forgiveness you’ve received from Christ.

Jesus doesn’t forbid helping others with their struggles; rather, He calls us to do so with the right heart. After dealing with your own sin, you will be in a better position to gently and lovingly help others. The process of self-examination and repentance equips you to see clearly and guide others in a way that honors God.

Bringing it Home: Applying What We Learned

  • Self-Examination: Take time to reflect on areas in your life where you need to repent and seek God’s forgiveness. Ask Him to reveal any “logs” that may be hindering your spiritual vision.
  • Humble Help: When addressing the faults of others, do so with humility, remembering that you, too, are a recipient of God’s grace. Approach others with a heart of compassion rather than judgment.
  • Growth Through Grace: Embrace the process of personal growth by allowing God to work in your life, removing obstacles that prevent you from walking in His light.

Prayer

Lord, help me to see my own shortcomings and to seek Your grace and forgiveness. Give me the humility to address my own sin before helping others with theirs. May I approach others with the same love and compassion that You have shown me. Amen.

Questions for Reflection: Facing Your Shortcomings

  • What are some areas in your life where you need to seek God’s forgiveness?
  • How can you approach others with humility and compassion rather than judgment?
  • What steps can you take to allow God to remove obstacles in your life that prevent you from walking in His light?

Take the Next Step on Your Journey

Thank you for joining me today. If you found this lesson helpful, I encourage you to explore more resources and support on my website, https://jameslongjr.org/. You can also watch my video on my YouTube channel.

Finally, would you consider joining our Lessons for Life monthly membership or our online group coaching, where you’ll find powerful coaching videos, a supportive community, and step-by-step guidance for lasting transformation?

Remember, true change is possible when you walk in God’s grace and for His glory. Until next time, may you find peace, hope, an

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