23rd. April. 2022. Daily Devotion.
Brothers and sisters – do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. 12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you – who are you to judge your neighbour? James 4:11-12
Think back to the dinner conversations you have had with your family and friends over the past month. How often did the subject turn to a criticism of others who were not present? Even if the critique was “constructive,” did you sometimes wonder if it would have been better to channel the conversation in a more positive direction?
In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warns us that the criteria by which we measure others will also measure us. It is all too easy to raise ourselves up in our own estimation by putting others down. A proud heart is easily deceived, especially by itself. Self-deception is virtually complete when a person can tote a two by four in his own eye while discovering a splinter in the eye of his neighbour.
James’ words in 4:11-12 are reminiscent of our Lord’s teaching on judgment of others. The word for “speak against” is used of people who slander others behind their backs (backbiters). There is a difference between criticism that tears others down and correction that seeks to build others up. The former divides the body because it is prompted by pride and envy; the latter attempts to restore the body because it is motivated by loving concern.
Father, give me the grace I need to quell pride and criticism of others in my life; for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
A Celtic Morning Prayer
Christ, we rise today knowing that you alone know our hearts.
You alone can change our sadness into joy
Forgive us our shortcomings. Teach us patience. Teach us kindness
Help us to forgive those who have injured us and keep us from injuring others.
Keep our way lighted with your steadfast love Amen. Beth Maxwell Boyle
Let us worship the Christ who draws near to each of us. Let us praise the Christ who loves the worst among us. Let us bless the Christ who shares with the least among us. Let us glorify the Christ who intercedes for all among us. Amen. Ann Griffiths (1776-1805)
Lord, your love knows no bounds. Help us to be ready for, make space for, and warmly welcome those among whom your Spirit is moving. Aid your Church at this in these days to be a safe place for all who are discovering your saving grace. May your kingdom come, and your will be done, here on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.
For peace and safety amid unrest
O God, who would fold both heaven and earth in a single peace: let the design of thy great love lighten upon the waste of our wraths and sorrows: and give peace to thy Church, peace among nations, peace in our dwellings, and peace in our hearts: through thy Son our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. Church of England Prayers for the World
through thy Son our Saviour Jesus Christ.
Amen.