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There is a significant
difference between correcting a brother as the Bible teaches
us to and trying to correct someone else's fault. In the first instance, the correction will take place within the local Church. It will involve a deliberate sin, and there will probably be two who will pray and fast and then go to the one needing discipline. In the second instance, someone is looking out an eye, but across a log to see the splinter in a brother's eye. The Bible is so explicit and firm, I am convinced that it is not possible to get splinter- oriented without being log-blinded. In fact, what the Bible says is that we are to "bear" our brother's "troublesome faults". It is a remarkable curiosity to have so many humans running around who know how to improve others. This unhealthy and unbiblical criticism begins with annoyance, and it does not take prayer and sacrificial love to come up with a list of things wrong with those around us. As a matter of fact such talk should immediately cease, and there should be a season of repentance. The ground must be recovered. Love does not demand change before giving all - otherwise, none of us could know salvation. If we are to be transformed into His likeness, we must be willing to see what God wants us to see, not the shadow cast by the log in our own eyes. I have come to the place in my life (at the ripe old age of 52) where I conclude that I do not know my own faults. I only know my own self-criticisms. How can I improve others? I cannot. But Love can. Lord, please love through me. Whatever it takes, I am willing. Teach me to yield to you and not to exalt my own taste or experience. I want heaven's priorities so that you can love through me. |
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