How well do you stand up to scrutiny? Are you above reproach? Or do you have many faults? Are you somewhere in between? Are you your own worst critic? Or do others point out your weaknesses? How well do you believe you could withstand God’s scrutiny?
We may hear others point out our weaknesses and faults. We may already know them, or we may take action to correct. On the other hand, we may take offense to someone else pointing out our faults. Being criticized can be hard to take, but constructive criticism in a loving manner can be easier.
Yet, none of us can stand up to God’s scrutiny and his perfection. If we know we cannot withstand God’s scrutiny, why should we try? First, God desires us to strive to be perfect as Jesus is perfect. Second, in our striving we will recognize, or God will reveal to us our faults. Why is that important?
By recognizing our faults, we are both motivated to do better and humbled by our lack of being perfect. Being humbled before God keeps us grounded. We realize we need God’s help to continue our striving. We know that it is only by God’s grace that we are saved and blessed. It is by God’s love and grace that we can continue to grow closer to him.
It is by God’s grace we are forgiven. It because we are forgiven that we can continue to strive for the perfection God desires. Being forgiven sets us free—free from the guilt of sin. We are no longer weighed down. We can pursue the pathway God has set before us with confidence.
I pray we all recognize we cannot stand before God’s scrutiny. I pray we know that God forgives us. I pray each one of us know we have been set free so we can pursue the path God has set before us. Be humble before God. Be grounded in your forgiveness. Know you have been set free. Pursue the path God has set before you.
Psalm 130:3-4
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,
Lord, who could stand?
But there is forgiveness with you,
so that you may be revered.
Marty Pressey 