Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:3 (ESV)

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?

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INTRO: How do you feel about criticism? And offering it?

MEASURING VS. JUDGING
What is it to judge vs. what is it to evaluate or to be discerning?

SPECKS VS. LOGS
How does Jesus call us to realistic self-evaluation?

LOVE THAT IS EXPENSIVE
How does Jesus embody this, and empower us to love well?

YOU CAN PRAY WITH US …

1. Worship the LORD who alone is just and Judge of all mankind. Praise Him that He alone is holy, pure, and all-knowing in His measurement of all our actions and motives.

2. How have you lived condemning others for things you do yourself? Confess your guilt to Jesus, especially the arrogance of your heart to claim the seat of judgment that God alone can justly occupy.

3. Give thanks to Jesus for the miracle of redemption! Thank Him for the amazing sacrifice He made to save the guilty by being judged in our place!

4. Who do you know that attempts to evade accountability by always defending against any genuine evaluation (“Who are you to judge me?”)? Pray for them, asking the Lord to help them become realistic about their true guilt before Him and the hope of mercy in Christ.

5. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you turn away from denial, arrogance, pride, or defensiveness. Pray for strength to grow in wisdom and realism about your own corruption and the power of Jesus to help you grow in love and holiness.