Removing the Log

Scripture: “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 7:5 NASB

If you’ve ever watched timber salvaging from the water you know the work can be intense. One of the most intense tasks is when the crews dive deep into murky water searching for massive logs sunken beneath the surface. They can’t see clearly, the water is dark, and everything gets distorted. But they still plunge beneath the surface to deal with what’s hidden.

Jesus calls us to a similar work—only the logs He’s talking about aren’t made of timber. They are the sins, attitudes, blind spots, and unresolved issues lodged deep within our own hearts.

When conflict arises, our natural instinct is to become a “splinter hunter.” We want to analyze the other person’s fault, focus on what they did wrong, and rehearse the ways they failed us. But Jesus flips that instinct on its head when He says, “First take the log out of your own eye.”

Before we address anyone else’s wrongdoing, we must honestly deal with our own.

Conflict-resolution expert Ken Sande puts it memorably: “Even if I’m only 2% responsible for a conflict, I’m 100% responsible for my 2%.”

Reflection

Ask God to help you dive deep. Ask Him to show you the hidden logs. And trust that when you deal honestly with your part, He will give you the clarity and grace you need to move toward peace.

Prayer

Father, give me the courage to examine my own heart before I examine anyone else’s. Reveal my part in the conflicts around me, and give me the humility to own it. Clear my vision so that I may pursue peace and reconciliation in a way that honors You. Amen.