Compared to Whom?

Compared to Whom?

A few years back I wrote a commentary about the biblical story of the prodigal son.   I was reminded of it today while listening to a woman complain about her husband.  I am newly aware of how easy it is for us to use ourselves as a standard by which we judge others.  In the prior article I wrote:

Anyone, by virtue of his genetics, temperament, personality, upbringing, or challenges, may develop attitudes, thought patterns, habits, or behaviors which we and society view as good. This is not the righteousness of God, and is of little value to him.  That is why, in the eyes of God, both the prodigal and his brother sinned.  Everything about us, “good” or “bad” must be submitted to God for cleansing before it can become His righteousness.  And His is the only kind He counts.  (By Comparison, September 12, 2006)

When dealing with someone who fails or falls short in some way we are often using ourselves as the standard by which we evaluate them.  They should measure up to what we would have done in a similar situation.  We are the self-appointed arbiter of what is “good” or desirable.  How did we attain such a high position?  We have elevated ours “ways” (our traits, habits, gifts) above others. 

There are three problems with this flaw in our thinking:

1. It severely damages our relationships.  We become judgmental, haughty, and lacking in compassion.
2. It keeps us from seeing our own faults, weaknesses and motives.  We feel the need to hide our limitations and failures from ourselves and others.  We also fail to recognize God’s hand in the shaping of others.
3. It interferes with our relationship with our Heavenly Father.  How offended he must be that you have replaced his Son as the example of perfection to which we all strive.  You have also blocked his access to perfecting you and drawing you closer to himself.

Under most circumstances we had little to do with the development of our ways, and our gifts and talents are God-given for his service and to his glory.  The next time you find yourself repeating those “I never”, or “I always” phrases you use to criticize another, remember this, too, is a flaw from which you need to be delivered.  Christ alone is the standard by which all flesh is to be judged.  

Do Not Grow Weary

Do Not Grow Weary in Doing Good

I am writing to encourage wives.  All of you who have determined in your hearts to follow God’s plan for marriage and the family have, by now experienced both the joy of small miracles and the annoyance of the enemy’s opposition.  He is not pleased that you have chosen God’s way and wants to scuttle your efforts.

Our Heavenly Father knows our hearts.  He also knows how vulnerable we are when we try to love unconditionally and obediently and sometimes see no fruit.  He encourages us in His Word:  “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Gal 6:9 NIV

 

And I encourage you.  You have already put the enemy to flight by the power of your testimony. God will place others on your path who will see your life and want to hear the truth you have learned about marriage. Be blessed and continue to be a blessing.  I carry each of you in my heart, asking the Lord to strengthen you. 

Call (or text or email or tweet or FB or . . .) someone this week and lend them your support.