EYES OF DISCERNMENT

Beware the “buts” of life. They are dangerous.

“You know I really love Larry, but he’s too smart for his own good.” Or…

“You know Al is a great teacher, but he uses the NLT instead of the ESV in class.” Or…

“Paula does a great job keeping all of the records of the College, but she is so slow in getting out our grades and even makes mistakes on my grades.” Or…

“I love the ‘Seeds,’ but wish they used a different, larger sized print.” Or…

And the list goes on.

We use “buts” to hide our true feelings and intentions. We speak the truth and then try to cover it up so others will think we are tentative, thoughtful and want to give the other person the benefit of the doubt. In other words, we want it both ways so we won’t be convicted of our true position or feelings.

“A rich man may be wise in his own eyes, but a poor man who has discernment sees through him.” In other words, the rich man is unable to see himself for all the good things he thinks he is doing. He is unaware of his inadequacies, his deceit, his taking advantage of others, even his greed. Perhaps he unable to recognize what he is doing because he has too much.

What is more important than the words we use to describe others is the fact that we are more likely to see what we want to see as the faults and failures in others rather than the flaws and foolishness in ourselves. We must look upward to Christ and see ourselves as He sees us.

Prayer: Help us, Father, to look at ourselves in light of Your Word and correct ourselves before we condemn others. May our lives be an example to others at all times. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today:  A rich man may be wise in his own eyes, but a poor man who has discernment sees through him. Proverbs 28:11