(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Matthew 12:24 But when the Pharisees heard about the miracle, they said, “No wonder he can cast out demons. He gets his power from Satan, the prince of demons.”
Have you ever made an assumption or allegation toward somebody else, only to discover later that you were wrong? Maybe you didn’t speak your assumption or allegation out loud, but deep in your mind you leveled accusations against them without taking the time to verify your thoughts. Some possible examples may include:
- Scott is late for the meeting. He obviously doesn’t care about us or the importance of our discussion today.
- My neighbors mow their lawn twice a week. They must really want others admire them and their attention to detail.
- Last week my boss told me he’d like to meet with me about an exciting new role in the company. But when I called to schedule, his assistant said he didn’t have any openings. He probably wasn’t interested in me for the position anyway.
As followers of Jesus, we need to evaluate our thoughts and consider what we may not know with 100% certainty prior to casting judgment and/or blame toward others.
READING & PRAYERS:
MATTHEW 12:22-37 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: How regularly do you make allegations against others, even if only in your mind, without taking time to verify your assumptions? What kind of damage may this be doing to you? To your relationship with them?
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: As you continue to slow down to be with Jesus a few times daily, pay attention to how this practice decreases your judgmental thoughts towards others.
Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, while I don’t like to think that I make false assumptions or allegations toward others, there’s a strong possibility that I do this far more regularly than I’m aware. Bring to the surface any negative, judgmental, harmful thoughts I may have toward others. Refine me so that I better reflect Your love and grace upon the world. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
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