Seeing Clearly Starts With Me

How do you view the faults of others?

Are their sins somehow worse than yours? Why is it that we so easily spot someone else’s shortcomings, yet struggle to see our own?

The truth is—we just do. Even Jesus called it out plainly:

“Why do you notice the little piece of dust in your friend’s eye, but you don’t notice the big piece of wood in your own eye?” (Luke 6:41 NCV)

One of the things I truly hope God continues to do in me—and I think He’s doing a pretty solid job—is to keep me mindful of my own sins.

Not so I can live in shame or guilt—that’s not the goal—but so I can remember. Remember how I’ve hurt others. How I’ve grieved God. And honestly, the more I remember, the more humbled I become.

It helps. It softens my heart toward others when they fall short, because I know exactly what it feels like to miss the mark.

Jesus continues with some strong—but true—words:

“How can you say to your friend, ‘Friend, let me take that little piece of dust out of your eye,’ when you cannot see that big piece of wood in your own eye? You hypocrite!” (Luke 6:42a NCV)

Yep. Hypocrite. That one hits. But it’s real.

If we act like we’re without sin while pointing fingers at others, that’s exactly what we are: hypocrites.

Here’s the reality—we’re all sinners living among sinners. Not one of us is clean without Christ. And instead of tearing each other down, we’re actually supposed to help one another live well. Live godly.

So what’s the takeaway here?

Jesus said:

“First, take the wood out of your own eye. Then you will see clearly to take the dust out of your friend’s eye.” (Luke 6:42b NCV)

Notice what Jesus doesn’t say—He doesn’t tell us not to bring things up with others. But He does say this: start with your own mess.

It’s only when we get honest with ourselves that we gain the clarity and humility to approach someone else wisely.

But can I give you a word of caution?

Most unsolicited advice—no matter how well-meaning—will feel like criticism.

It’s almost unavoidable. And if you’re going to bring up someone’s flaws, do it in person. Please. Not in writing. I’ve messed this up more times than I’d like to admit. It rarely ends well.

Still, accountability is a gift. We need each other. And when we do it in love, when we keep humility at the forefront, it can actually be really life-giving.

Paul reminded the Ephesians of this kind of love and grace:

“Be kind and loving to each other, and forgive each other just as God forgave you in Christ.” (Ephesians 4:32 NCV)

So here’s the bottom line:

If we truly love others the way we love ourselves, the outcome will most likely be helpful, not hurtful.

LORD, help us hold each other accountable. Help us to be kind and approachable. Help us be honest about our own sin. Teach us when to speak—and when to stay silent. IJNIP amen. ♥️