A CRITICAL SPIRIT

 

It is so easy to look at others and see their faults. Those faults always seem to be so obvious, and we are quick to say something or make judgements in our heart. Do you have a critical spirit? We can get so busy with our families, friends, and church that these types of thoughts seem to be so natural we aren't alarmed or concerned about them. I'm in prison, and I have a lot of free time on my hands...a lot of time to think and actually pay attention to my thoughts. I want to share a couple verses: Luke 6:41 "And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thine brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye?" Luke 6:45 "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh." I began to notice as I went through my day that I would have a thought that would literally stop me in my tracks. I was horrified at my thoughts. It didn't matter if I was right or others agreed with me it was not kind. I want to be a testimony to those around me and share the gospel with them. How can I do this if I'm criticizing them in my thoughts or words? How can I show them God's love when I'm not loving them unconditionally? Please pray for me. Instead of a critical spirit I want to have a compassionate spirit.