How can we identify and remove the "log" in our own eye? The Picture Jesus Paints “ ‘You hypocrite! First take the log out of your own eye, then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.’ ” (Matthew 7:5) • “Log” — a glaring, personal sin or blind spot that distorts our spiritual vision • “Speck” — a lesser fault in someone else that suddenly seems huge when our own sin goes unchallenged • Order matters: personal repentance before public correction Why the Log Must Go • It blocks clear sight (James 1:23-25) • It undermines witness (Romans 2:21-24) • It invites discipline (Hebrews 12:6-11) • It poisons relationships (Ephesians 4:30-32) Spotting the Log in Our Own Eye 1. Invite God’s searchlight (Psalm 139:23-24) 2. Measure attitudes and actions against Scripture, not against other people (Hebrews 4:12) 3. Listen when conviction nips at conscience (John 16:8) 4. Pay attention to repeated feedback from trustworthy believers (Proverbs 27:5-6) 5. Notice disproportionate irritation with others’ faults—often the log’s shadow Tools for Removal • Confession: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) • Repentance: turn from the sin and toward obedience (Acts 3:19) • Scripture saturation: daily intake renews the mind (Psalm 19:7-11) • Prayerful dependence: ask the Spirit for power to put sin to death (Romans 8:13) • Accountability: invite a mature believer to speak truth and monitor progress (Galatians 6:1) • Restitution where needed: right wrongs, seek reconciliation (Matthew 5:23-24) After the Log Is Gone • Vision clears; spiritual discernment sharpens (Philippians 1:9-10) • Compassion grows; correction is offered with gentleness, not superiority (2 Timothy 2:24-25) • Community strengthens; mutual honesty becomes safer (Ephesians 4:15-16) • Worship deepens; gratitude replaces guilt (Psalm 32:1-2) Living the Pattern Daily • Morning: ask the Spirit to spotlight any lurking logs • Throughout the day: keep short accounts—confess as soon as conviction comes • Evening: review the day with Psalm 139 open, rejoicing in each grace-fueled victory and surrendering fresh failures • Week by week: meet with an accountability partner, celebrate progress, and stay vigilant—new logs can form quickly |
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