Is There Hope For The Hypocrite?
BRD REFLECTION 2025
(Seow Wenguang from Small Group Ministry, Children’s Ministry)
READ:
Luke 6:37-42 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
In this passage, God reminds me not to judge or condemn others. Instead, He calls me to cultivate a forgiving spirit, as a child of God who has already received His forgiveness. For the measure I use will be measured back to me. This passage also teaches me to avoid self-righteousness and hypocrisy, and instead to demonstrate love and empathy.
APPLY:
The meaning of this passage is very clear; yet living it out in daily life is challenging. I am ashamed to admit that I often jump to conclusions and speak hurtful words—sometimes even to those dearest to me.
In the busyness of life, I sometimes let sarcasm slip out or act unkindly before I even realize it. Even when nothing is spoken outwardly, sinful thoughts can already be stirring in my mind. Truly, my sinful nature is difficult to tame.
This passage is a timely reminder that I must not be a hypocrite or think of myself as better than others. Before God, we are all equal, for all have sinned and fallen short of His glory. Yet, in His mercy, Jesus redeemed me at the cross. Since God has made the ultimate sacrifice and loves me unconditionally, I too must learn to follow His example and love others with the same unconditional love.
DO:
1. Read God’s Word and pray daily to sanctify my mind and guard against unwholesome thoughts.
2. Practise self-awareness to slow my pace and be mindful of my words and actions.
3. Pray for wisdom to control my tongue in moments of anger or stress, and to respond thoughtfully after the heat of the moment.
4. Cultivate empathy by putting myself in others’ shoes and recognising that there may be circumstances I cannot see.
5. Pray for restraint from generalisations, speaking and thinking with discernment and kindness.
PRAY:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Help me control my thoughts and words, act with patience, and show compassion to others. Pray for awareness that I do not know everyone’s full story. Therefore, teach me to avoid judgement and generalisations. Fill me with Your love so I can reflect Your grace each day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
