Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding remains silent. —Proverbs 11:12

How many of you remember the old show Dragnet? This was a saying that Joe Friday would always say, “Just the facts!” I read the following story concerning John Wesley.

“There was once a man whom John Wesley thought of as miserly; he had little respect for him. He felt so strongly about this man that, on an occasion when the man gave only a small gift to a worthy charity, Wesley openly criticized him.

Not long after, the gentleman paid a visit to Wesley. He was surprised to hear that this man—someone whom he assumed was simply greedy—had actually been living on parsnips and water for several weeks. The man told him that he had amassed a great deal of debt in the past. Since his conversion, he chose to pay off all his creditors; therefore, he bought nothing for himself and spent as little as possible elsewhere. “Christ has made me an honest man,” he said, “and so with all these debts to pay, I can give only a few offerings above my tithe. I must settle up with my worldly neighbors and show them what the grace of God can do in the heart of a man who was once dishonest.” Wesley then apologized to the man and asked for his forgiveness.”

As I read this story, I was reminded that it is easy for us to find fault with others when we have no idea what is happening in that person's life or the reasons behind their actions. I heard a comment once that it is amazing how a few facts can forever alter our perception of a given situation.

So, when you and I feel the urge to judge, it’s a good time to ask the Lord for wisdom and patience to understand the facts first. 

Heavenly Father,  we thank You for the conviction found in Your Word and the humbling reminder from the life of John Wesley. Forgive us for the times we have lacked sense and belittled our neighbors, judging them by outward appearances while remaining blind to the burdens they carry. 

Lord, grant us understanding hearts—one that chooses silence over criticism and prayer over prejudice. When we are tempted to speak harshly, remind us that we rarely have all the facts, but You see every heart and every sacrifice. Fill us with Your grace so that we might extend the same patience to others that You so freely give to us. Teach us to walk in wisdom, honoring You by how we love and perceive our neighbors. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Seeking to understand others,

Gene

Because Life Begins at Calvary