We are never more frustrated with other people than when we are frustrated with ourselves. We think, “Even I know not to do thus and so.” We see our own faults and lament over them, so that when someone else does something we are convinced we would never do, we are disgusted with the other person and judge them harshly. That is when we are most likely to refer to them as fools.
Jesus made it clear that we have no right to place that kind of judgment on anyone (Mathew 5:21-22). He says our hearts have become murderous toward others when we display such animosity. We have set ourselves up as judge and jury and in that attitude bring our gifts to God at his altar. But God rejects such gifts, telling us, “if you bring your gift to the altar and there remember that your brother has ought against you, leave your gift before the alter and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother and then come and offer your gift.” (Mathew 5:23-24).
Admitting our faults and weaknesses is not the problem. The problem is in our disgust toward ourselves instead of repentance toward God. Gratefully accepting God’s grace and mercy will result in my extending grace and mercy to others. But bearing my own sin will always result in my condemning others.
