Walking in his shoes

Matthew 7:1-2

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

Have you ever slipped your feet into a pair of your husband’s slippers? Perhaps you needed to get the mail, or get something out of the car, maybe you had to feed the dogs; whatever the reason, how did it feel to be in his shoes? Well, I’ve worn my husband’s slippers many times, and there was quite a bit of room to fill, as my husband wears a size 13, and I wear a size 7. I often wonder what it’s like to walk in his shoes on a daily basis. I mean we share a life together, but what is it really like for him? Have you ever wondered the same about your mate? If so, then you know that life is not always a bed of roses.

I can’t count the numerous times that I’ve given my husband a hard time about something that he has done, not done, or should be doing; just voicing my opinions and concerns at will. I would often share with him how I would handle things if it were me. Well, last I checked, I’m definitely not him! I have to admit that I’ve judged him on more than one or two occasions without even taking into consideration what it’s like to walk in his shoes. There is a saying “ never judge a person until you’ve walked a mile in his shoes.” Well, considering that I don’t walk long distances often (hardly ever), then I should keep my mouth closed and my thoughts (negative) to myself. My husband and I do a really good job of sharing with one another the ups and downs of our lives (past and present), but sometimes he doesn’t have to say a word because his pain is written all over his face. Personally, I’ve made so many mistakes in my own life that I don’t have room to be critical or judgmental of anyone else, especially the man that I share my life with. Again, as his wife it is my responsibility to encourage him as often as I can. I know that the world beats him up on a daily basis, so he doesn’t need to be put in the headlock by me. Besides, to some degree I can understand what he’s been through, as well as what he goes through; but I can never imagine to what degree the depths of his pain run. If I’m riding his back all the time, who is he going to trust to have his back? Your mate may have some issues; some things that you feel he could change, but who doesn’t? Are you issue free?

Matthew 7:1-2 says “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” In summary: Jesus tells us to examine our own motives and conduct instead of judging others. The traits that bother us in others are often the habits we dislike in ourselves. Our untamed bad habits and behavior patterns are the very ones that we most want to change in others. Do you find it easy to magnify others’ faults while excusing your own? If you are ready to criticize someone, check to see if you deserve the same criticism. Judge yourself first, and then lovingly forgive and help your neighbor.

By far ladies, there is nothing wrong with a little constructive criticism when needed, but make sure it’s constructive. I’m sure that our mates are doing their best to provide for us and our families. Don’t be so quick to tear him down! LOVE him up instead!

Find the jewel in you, see the gem in him!

Treazure

*Scripture quotations and summary are taken from the Life Application Study Bible (NIV).

How is the 30-Day Encouragement challenge coming along? I have two more days to go. It has been awesome. I have seen so many changes in my “him”, as well as in myself. It has been one of the most uplifting things that I’ve ever done! For those of you that are doing the challenge, keep up the good work, and for those who haven’t started, enjoy it when you do!

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!!!

This column is dedicated to my Valentine…my “Him”!
I LOVE YOU! FOREVER YOURS, HER