
Today's Reading:
Joshua 23,24; Psalms 44; 1 Corinthians 11
Scripture
“But if we judged ourselves rightly, we should not be judged.” (1 Corinthians 11:31)
Observation
Coming off the plane, I headed for the baggage claim, and there before entering Hawaii stands an ominous box. Like a diplomatic garbage can, a last charge reprieve — “Amnesty — declare it now.” The small print reads something to the effect: “Dump any fruits, or illegal contraband now—this is your last chance—because if you don’t and we catch you, you are roadkill … history!”
Not much thought is given until, while waiting for my luggage to arrive, some sniffing canine on a leash begins meddling through our carry-ons … and I begin to ravage through my mind: “Do I have any apples, fruits, gifts I didn’t declare?”
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians, “If we judged ourselves rightly, we should not be judged.” In other words, “Declare it or be judged!”
Application
God gives me a chance to judge myself, or He will. To evaluate and correct my motives — or He will. To, as 1 Peter 5:6 says, “Humble yourself” or He will. Today, I will check my heart, my motives, and be sure to keep clean before the Lord. I don’t need any dogs sniffing to tell me it’s too late. I’ll do that before they start barking.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for allowing us to be honest. Only when we refuse, You step in. I will judge myself more.