September 5 Forgiveness, Love, Maturity Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (Colossians 3:13)
In my 70 years of life, I continue to observe the fact that there are individuals that seem to be a bit “better” than others, and that they have standards that fluctuate to fit their narrow perspective, at that moment! Judgmental, arrogantly superior, and self-appointed judge and jury for anything that happens that does not fit into their narrow way of thinking! Every generation has a representative of this attitude and, it seems to me that this mindset is getting stronger! God’s Word instructs us to “Love our Neighbor, to lift One Another Up, and to make sure that we are obedient before we attempt to “Correct” others! As a pastor, I am intrigued when one of these “Self-Appointed Monitors” (not necessarily a church member) calls to inform me that I need to “Fix” these folks because they are not living the way that they are supposed to live… Wow! I wonder if Luke 6:37 would apply in this situation? “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” I know that this is difficult for some, however, you were not anointed with the power to condemn, judge or correct others when you are still struggling yourself! Friends, we NEED to PRAY for WISDOM, READ GOD’S HOLY WORD, and APPLY It On and In our Lives, so that we will Honor Him, Serve Him and be a LIGHT in this DARK and SINFUL WORLD, versus being a stumbling block for those who do not meet our standards of living and attitudes! Immaturity, shallow prayer life, nonexistent Bible Reading, quickness to be offended by everything, and the tendency to enjoy drama of any kind, are clear indications of “baby” believers that need to grow, mature and to Pray, Read, and Share! “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15:12) Think Before You Speak! Pray before You Condemn! If your words and actions are not going to bring people closer to God, but further away, then don’t do it! Your Opinions have zero power to Save, Cleanse, Sustain nor Heal a Broken Heart! Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” This really does apply to you… Stay Strong, Stay Focused … THE BEST IS YET TO BE!