They tie up heavy loads that are hard to carry and put them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves aren’t willing to lift a finger to move them. (Matthew 23:4)
The Pharisees and scribes had a habit of pointing out others’ sins.
But one thing they never did was reach out with compassion to those burdened with their sin.
And it made me think, “Am I as quick to help people who are struggling with their sin as I am to point our their sin?”
I believe Paul was thinking of Jesus’ words when he wrote,
Brothers and sisters, if someone is overtaken in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual, restore such a person with a gentle spirit, watching out for yourselves so that you also won’t be tempted.
Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:1-2)
Father, unlike the scribes and Pharisees, I don’t want to be a person who merely points out others’ sins. May I instead have Jesus’ heart toward those struggling with their sins. Give me his heart of mercy towards them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Moment to Moment (Bible blog) 