July 14

You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not complain, brethren, against one another, that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door. James 5:8,9.

It is sad to note that some Christians spend too much time complaining about others. It is an easy thing to do, for we are all imperfect in our performance. But the practice of this does not please the Lord. The complaints arise from a heart attitude toward others that does not represent love. When we realize that Jesus is standing at the door, listening to our very words, the whole scene takes on a different meaning. My task should become one of realizing my own shortcomings, taking them to the Lord in prayer, and then reaching out to others with a helpful, nonjudgmental, attitude.

I have noted that church services, and the leaders thereof, become easy targets for complaints. We tend to think of ourselves as experts on church decorum when we do not have the task of leading the order of worship. It is an easy, safe position. Why do we not learn to see that Christ has forgiven us, and it is proper to join with Him in forgiving others? He is the ultimate and final Judge. Some also tend to think that they could explain theology better than the chosen speaker could for the day. Where is true worship of our Lord and King? Our hearts need to be yielded to God.

Heavenly Father, let me be a humble servant for You today. The servant is not the judge. The servant must only be about Your work. Rid me of any feelings of superiority. Your Son is standing at my door, ready to walk with me in love. I want to hear His “well done” as we work together. I want to be useful in helping others. Thank You. Amen.
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