"Don't judge other people, and God will not judge you. If you
    judge other people, you will be judged in the same way you
    judge them. And the way you give to other people will be the
    way God gives to you."

                          Matthew 7:1-2

As Matthew continues his presentation of Jesus' great teaching, he
wants us to hear the Lord's words on how to live in our world. The
previous verses have focused on how to deal with our concerns for
provision and our desires for more things. In the next few verses, the
focus will be on our treatment of others. Jesus doesn't want us to
fault-find, gossip, or be cynical and harshly critical of those around
us. He doesn't want us to assume that we know the motives of others'
hearts. He wants us to be gracious to others as God has been gracious
with us. However, if we choose to ignore his words, he warns that God
will judge us with the same standard we use on others. Pretty sobering
reminder to be gracious!

Forgive me Father, for the times I have been less than kind about one
of your children. I am sorry, because I know that you have so much more
to be disappointed about in me than I do in others. Father, I want you
to help me now, as I pray; please remove any bitter or critical spirit
that infects my character. Through your Holy Spirit, form in me the
love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness and self-control that show your presence and transformation
in my life. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.