It takes no advanced degree to find fault with another man — or to show the stupidity of someone else's thinking. It takes much grace to see God at work in a fellow redeemed sinner whose life is marred by sin and marked by grace. It takes grace to see it and strengthen it. It takes grace to encourage them in a way that glorifies God and strengthens faith…
Am I a judge? I have very good standards and others need to measure up. I wake up in the morning and the first thing I see is what has not been done. I see faults all over. I am God's agent to make them excellent (sarcasm)..
A few years ago a friend saw my sin and encouraged me to spend a whole summer doing nothing but encouraging my others. It was one of the hardest things I have ever done. Every day I would look for grace in them but find faults. I had to bite my tongue all the time. But the fruit on their lives and our relationship was amazing.
So — as I lead my family and visit with friends, do they hear my criticism more than my commendation? Do I see myself as the great and indispensable fault-finder (just picture me in blue tights with a big F on my chest)?
As I relate to fellow-Christians, am I more aware of their sin or of their growth in sanctification?
I am learning this most crucial element of fellowship — and seeing it as the first step. Until I see grace in others I am in no position to help them grow by pointing out their sin.
