Dear Lord,
Sometimes I see the dark underbelly of situations, people, attitudes, and behaviors, and when I do, I want to explain what I see—so that others will see things my way too. I convince myself that my insights paired with my grumbled whispers and complaints will improve everything.
I mutter, “Why don’t they see it my way, do it my way, or ask me my opinion?”
When I act like this, I’m pointing to my own pride and hypocrisy as well as my own bitter heart. This unwise behavior opens a door for You to judge me.
I am so sorry, and I turn away from this behavior. Create a loving heart in me, and forgive me so that I do not judge others or forget to speak in love. Help me to show mercy and grace so that I can receive Your mercy and grace. Otherwise I am blinded by my own pride.
I call for mercy and grace over all whom I have grumbled against. I ask that You remove my bitter words against them and remove Your bitter judgments against me. Give me eyes to see Your love and grace in every situation and individual You have called me to influence. Help me to love others as You have loved me.
I invite You to turn every situation that has annoyed me into a situation that honors You. I pledge to encourage others instead of condemning them. I pledge to speak words of love.
In the name of Jesus, amen.
Speak only what is good so that you can give help wherever it is needed. That way, what you say will help those who hear you.
Ephesians 4:29 GW
Brothers and sisters, stop complaining about each other, or you will be condemned. Realize that the judge is standing at the door.
James 5:9 GW
Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, “Let me take the speck out of your eye,” when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.
Matthew 7:1–5 ESV