In Perspective: Seeing Ourselves!
In view of our recent bible study and prayers requested, a little bit of soul searching and thought provoking questions were raised. How do we see ourselves? Are we accepting in God’s favor? Do we live our lives as an example for the Lord? As Christians...should we be judged? By whom? Why do we feel that we can judge others and not be judged?
Recently, a few celebrities have passed on. In the midst of media frenzy, the how’s and why’s poured in and out of conversations. The circumstances surrounding some were questionable…needless to say; our sense to feel the loss may have been hindered by the scenarios of their passing. Other than their stardom, did we really “know” them, their lifestyles, and their spirituality? In that respect, how would you feel if you thought no one will want to honor you? (7When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." (John 8:7 NIV))
In the absence of true reflection…We see ourselves in the mirror as a handsome people…as we walk away, that reflection is no longer seen. But God sees our true self!!!!! Are we in disbelief when someone tells us something good or bad about us? Are we in denial? It would be nice to be seen as good and righteous by all; when “our“ world is right…the right prevails! But looking at it from a different light, this concept can be a self discovery for some. Example, if one is embattled in legal trouble; some would say: “You put yourself in that position.” However, if we were in the same situation, we might say: “But it wasn’t my fault!” Another example: “I’m a Christian; I don’t drink nor smoke. I may have a couple vices, but “they’re not that bad…” We have our faults and weakness and no one sin is lesser or greater in God’s eyes. (22"The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. 23But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! (Matthew 6:22 NIV)
We are multi-dimensional through life changes and circumstances and sometimes pliable through life stressors. With all the complications involved; we still should not be so quick to judge others. Only God truly knows the human heart. Become aware of
understanding to others as we would expect to receive these attributes by God. (your weaknesses and pray to God to strengthen them. We are responsible for providing love, patience, compassion and 12 Who can discern his errors? Forgive my hidden faults. Psalm 19:12 NIV)
I was really moved by one of the prayer requests that caused me to question myself …As one of our PWs profoundly expressed: “Working to mend relationships with those in our life; Most of the time I stop putting forth effort when situations become difficult; my relationships may be superficial; I want to put more into things and try harder.” I believe it is very important to be aware of ourselves in relation with others. It’s a reality check to come to terms in knowing how we impact the people we know and love. We need to listen to the “truth,” take it to heart and be willing to improve. We must be willing to accept that we have faults and learn to work on them; make amends.
So true we are all covered by the Grace of God in our human errors, but we must be totaling accepting of what God’s is trying to tell us…to wake up, to confess our sins, ask in continuous prayers of forgiveness, and improve our relationship with God. (14Let the
words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14 NASB)
For our salvation, we must be willing to work on improving our spiritual commitment as well. Be sure we are doing what God wants. We must ask for God’s intention, protection, guidance and wisdom. (10 "I the LORD search the heart, and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve." Jer 17:10)
On a road to spiritual recovery with regards accepting ourselves, let the Grace of God pour over you, cleanse your soul and give you a you to be a new slate; rectify and heal your innermost spiritual being. Enhance your life into a more spiritual and loving person that God created. (16In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 (NIV)
Scriptures
5You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. 16But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me. 17In your own Law it is written that the testimony of two men is valid. 18I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me. John 8:15
