But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. Galatians 6:4
Seeing what others are doing or have done is easy for everyone. Things are open to be seen. As a result of being seen, things can also be just as easily criticized as good or bad. Thousands of people sit in armchairs and are quick to criticize others on nearly everything and anything that is said or done. People think that they could do things better or that someone else should always do it better.
After talking about being careful in helping others overcome a burden, Paul tells the Galatian church that each person should examine one’s own work. This is done so that the person can rejoice in one’s own work alone and not in others.
Very few people like to be criticized. Everyone wants to be praised and lifted up. Yet, nearly everyone likes to criticize someone else.
The few that don’t mind being criticized are the ones who know that one can grow with criticism. They are willing to hear what is good and grow from it and toss out what is bad or of no real value.
Taking time to examine self is one thing that every person can do on their own. They are able to look at what was done or not done, said or not said with a critical eye that is aware of everything that occurred, including the hidden motives.
As a person honestly examines self, faults will easily come to the surface and be seen. Believers are to examine themselves and seek God’s help and direction in their lives on what needs to be improved or what is going well for them.
This helps keep one from being focused upon others over self. You know yourself better than any other person on the earth. The only one who knows you better is God Himself. Knowing that, you need to take time to examine your life closely and see what you are doing well in and what you are doing poorly in. This can help you see where you need to improve your life to become more like Jesus by His grace, strength and power. It will also slow you down on being so critical of others and give you compassion for their burdens that they are carrying.
Today I pray that you will know Jesus as your Lord and Savior; that God will open your eyes to things you need to work on in your life; that God will show you things you are doing very well; and that God will give you a compassion for the burdens of others.
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