Misjudgement To Missed Chances
BRD REFLECTIONS:
(Nicole Shen, SGM, SGL)
READ:
John 7 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
This passage details reactions towards Jesus’s works, mostly of disbelief. There were several instances where Jesus was misjudged and even His own brothers did not believe Him. As Jesus spoke to the crowds, and even as He showed His knowledge and wisdom, many continued to doubt him and were confused about His identity. The Jewish leaders in particular were dismissive of Him being the Messiah, or even a prophet at that (v 52).
APPLY:
Approaching middle age, I have fallen into the trap of thinking I know a lot about the world. As a result, I have often quickly judged someone’s character without being more curious about them or thinking more deeply about their actions. Like the Pharisees, there are times when I have been guilty of a similar cynicism, specifically towards the kindness and generosity of others, believing that they are out merely to gain favour because they want something from me. It therefore makes it hard for me to form deep friendships when I am always unsure of whether to trust someone. Verse 24 speaks to me: “Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.” While there are indeed some who are out to “deceive”, I should be more discerning and “judge correctly”, rather than view all kindness with suspicion. This would only cause me to miss out on the full goodness of Christ enacted through His people on earth. If I persist in being blind to what is good and true in my life, I run the risk of being unable to fully experience the joy He has to offer me.
DO:
Verse 17 states, “Anyone who chooses to do the will of God will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.”
Therefore:
- I choose to do the will of God.
- I will pray for an open heart and discernment.
- I will place my trust in those whom God has entrusted to do His work on earth.
PRAY:
Father, thank You for giving me these words to meditate on. I know that I am guilty of sometimes rejecting good people out of my own world weary cynicism, and I pray for You to soften my heart. Please give me the wisdom and discernment to know Your will, and recognise the people who do Your good work.
