I See _________ People!

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People Watching: actively studying strangers without revealing the slightest bit of interest in them, and then proceeding to make conclusions about said people based on such observations as physical appearance, wardrobe, gestures, and speech.

Or, basically - staring.

It's human nature to give someone the stare-down (while trying desperately not the be caught in the process). Let's all be honest and admit that when we do stare, we fall prey to the judgment trap. I know I do.

My husband and I notice shoes. Specifically, the bad choices many women make in their choice of footwear. You know, the styles that are worn to look cool, only it's painfully obvious that the person can barely walk in them. I also notice bad posture. And, ladies, (I'm whispering now), I can tell if you are wearing the wrong size bra. (Tip: does your back hurt? Invest in good footwear and don't skimp on support for the "girls".)

Told you I stare.

God is staring at those same people with whom I'm so fascinated. That alone convicts me. While my example may be silly, I'll admit that the ability to see those around me through the lens of the Father is pretty tough sometimes. Only, God lives in my heart and mind, and the Holy Spirit is more powerful than my filthy thoughts. He has given me the tools to do battle with my judgmental tendencies.

What if I were to memorize the following and silently pray it over someone I've never met every time I allow my thoughts to wander into and fester in judgement? How about praying it over people I do know, and just don't like?

Ephesians 3:16-19 I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

Remove your glasses. I'm quite certain God will let you borrow His.

John 13:34 So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.

Mark 12:31 The second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' No other commandment is greater than these."


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