A Better Way to See Others

Scripture: Philippians 2:3–5

Reflection
One temptation in relationships is to become experts at identifying the faults of other people while remaining unaware of our own. We can label others as difficult, selfish, or “toxic” while failing to notice the ways our own sin makes us difficult to love. Jesus’ parable calls us to a different posture.

Remembering our own forgiveness produces humility. We are people who have received an enormous mercy from God. That changes the way we look at the person who has wronged us. Instead of asking only, “How could they do this to me?” we can also ask, “How can I respond in a way that reflects Christ?” This does not mean ignoring sin or papering over a difficult obstacle in your relationship. It means approaching difficult relationships with humility, patience, and the mind of Christ.

Prayer
Father, forgive me for the times I have been quick to see the sins of others and slow to see my own. Give me the humility of Christ. Help me seek peace and reconciliation wherever possible, and teach me to respond to others with the grace I have received from You. Amen.

Application Question
Is there a relationship in which you need to look honestly at your own faults before focusing on the faults of the other person?