Message Notes
Look Back
In what way can you seek God, above all else, regarding the issue you worry about most?
Look Up
Read Matthew 7:1-2
- What standard do you tend to use when judging other people? What factors or events in your life influenced this?
- What does Jesus say will be the result when we are judgmental or critical of other people? Have you ever personally experienced this, and if so what was the outcome?
Read Matthew 7:3-5
- What does verse 3 say we should not focus on? What does this mean in practical terms?
- What does verse 5 we should focus on and do first? Why is this important?
- What does verse 5 say should be the goal, or purpose of our efforts? How easy is it for you to change your opinion, or perspective to help another person that you may disagree with?
Read 1 Samuel 16:6-7
- What do these verses say about God? How easy is it for you to accept that God often sees people differently than you? What specifically makes this easy or challenging for you?
- What does it mean to look at a person’s “heart”? Who do you know personally that is good at doing this and what steps can you take to learn from that person?
Overall (Discovery Bible Study)
- What do these scriptures say about God?
- What do they say about people?
- How will I apply this to my life?
Look Ahead
What do your actions typically reflect - compassion or judgment? Is there anyone you are wrongly judging and if so, how can you make it right?
Notes
Jesus reminds us that there is only one true judge - God who created us and desires to see us grow in Christ’s image. Too often we fall into a trap of comparing ourselves with others with the goal of proving we are right or better. Jesus warns us against this and challenges us to change our perspective in order to better see and understand the intentions and perspectives of others. This is rarely easy or simple, but is possible when we trust in the power of God’s Holy Spirit.
