A Prayer to Check the Plank in My Own Eye | Your Daily Prayer

Reflecting on Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7:3-5, Lia Girard explores the difference between discernment and judgment, the danger of gossip and self-righteousness, and the importance of examining our own hearts first. This devotional encourages Christians to approach correction with humility and mercy rather than condemnation.

What Does “Take the Plank Out of Your Own Eye” Mean?

In Matthew 7:3-5, Jesus warns against focusing on another person’s fault while ignoring our own.

The plank-and-speck image exposes hypocrisy and self-righteousness.

Jesus is not saying that believers should never recognize wrongdoing.

He is teaching that correction should begin with honest self-examination.

Does “Do Not Judge” Mean Christians Can Never Discern Right From Wrong?

No.

The Bible still calls Christians to discern truth, recognize harmful behavior, pursue wisdom, and address sin.

The issue is the posture.

Discernment asks:

What is true, wise, safe, and loving?

Condemnation says:

I am above you, and your failure defines you.

Jesus calls His followers to humility before correction.

Why Is Gossip Spiritually Dangerous?

Gossip can make another person’s failure feel entertaining, validating, or socially useful.

It can also distract us from examining our own motives, pride, resentment, or sin.

Before repeating something negative about another person, Christians can ask:

• Is this mine to share?

   

• Is it true?

• Is sharing it necessary?

• Does it help repair anything?

• Would I say this if the person were present?

• Am I sharing from concern or from the enjoyment of criticism?

How Can I Examine My Own Heart Before Correcting Someone?

Before confronting someone else:

• Pray first.

• Ask God to reveal your motives.

• Consider whether you have contributed to the problem.

• Remove exaggeration.

• Separate facts from assumptions.

• Make room for the possibility that you are missing something.

• Speak with humility rather than superiority.

Is Setting a Boundary the Same as Judging Someone?

No.

Recognizing that someone is unsafe, dishonest, manipulative, or unhealthy for you does not automatically mean you are condemning them.

Boundaries can be wise.

The difference is that a boundary addresses what behavior you will participate in or tolerate, while condemnation attempts to define the person’s ultimate worth or standing before God.