Today’s Manna!
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:3-4
In 1 Corinthians 4:3-4, Paul addresses the issue of judgment and self-assessment. He emphasizes that ultimate judgment comes from the Lord, and not from human opinions or even one’s own evaluation.
Paul writes, “I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me.” (1 Corinthians 4:3-4, NIV)
Paul’s confidence is rooted not in human approval but in God’s judgment. He acknowledges that even a clear conscience does not equate to innocence, underscoring the importance of God’s ultimate assessment.
Consider the story of David in 1 Samuel 16. When Samuel was sent to anoint the next king of Israel, he looked at Jesse’s sons and thought Eliab, the eldest, was surely the Lord’s anointed. But God said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7, NIV). David, the youngest and seemingly least likely, was chosen because of his heart for God. This story illustrates that God’s judgment is based on His knowledge of our hearts, not on outward appearances or human opinions.
As believers, we are often subject to the judgments of others and even our own self-criticism. However, Paul reminds us that it is God’s judgment that truly matters. Our aim should be to live in a manner that pleases Him, knowing that His assessment is just and perfect.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help us to focus on Your judgment and approval rather than the opinions of others or our own self-assessments. Give us the courage to live for You with a clear conscience, trusting in Your perfect judgment. Help us to seek Your will in all we do, knowing that You see our hearts. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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