Speck or Plank?

"Judge not that you be not judged" (Mt 7:1)

It is a well-known and oft-quoted saying, "When your index finger points at another's faults, three other fingers are turned accusingly towards yourself!" Yet how often and ever so conveniently we forget this axiom! So our Lord challenges us, "Why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye and do not consider the plank in your own eyes?" (Mt 7:3-5).

We need to constantly remember that we would be judged in the exact measure and manner by which we judge another (Mt 7:2). Apostle Paul warned Christians, "You are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself... you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of righteous judgement of God" (Rom 2:1-5). Isn't it Satan's trait to "accuse" God's people (Rev 12:10)?

The moment we presume to think ourselves better than others, be it anyone else at all, all our spirituality is in vain (Js 1:26). The Lord would not accept the prayers of such—vide the self-righteous Pharisee of Luke 18:11-14. "Let each esteem others better than himself" (Phil 2:3). "Be eager to show respect for one another" (Rom 12:10b). If we sincerely love others, their faults, whatever they be, just don't seem so significant. "Love covers all sins" (Prov 10:12a).

We are admonished not only to accept and encourage those who may be weak in faith but also never hold their seemingly silly doubts against them to a fault (Rom 14:1). We should not speak ill of any servant of God. Who are we, to judge and condemn? Whether they stand firm or slip and fall, they are accountable to the Lord. For God is able to restore them (Rom 14:4).

As much as we do not desire or tolerate any slander against us or even a true criticism of our shortcomings, why should we do so against another person? "Whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them" (Mt 7:12). If we are inconsiderate and unkind towards others, God will bring situations in our lives which will painfully make us realise our folly. Frequent self-examinations leave us with little time for inspecting others! This is the meaning of the words of Jesus: "First get rid of the log from your own eye; then perhaps you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye" (Mt 7:5).

Thou alone knowest all, O perfect and holy,
Thou alone can judge so righteously.
May I not incur Thy wrath by indulging
In matters beyond me, such as judging!

Courtesy : http://www.stanleyonbible.com/dd/08/0804.htm