In this podcast episode, the host delves into the critical distinction between judgment and discernment as taught by Jesus in Matthew chapter 7 of the Sermon on the Mount. This chapter begins with the well-known admonition, "Do not judge, or you too will be judged." However, the episode emphasizes that this directive does not preclude the necessity of discernment in our interactions with others.

The Nature of Judgment

In this context, " judgment " refers to a private opinion that often carries a sense of condemnation or punishment. It implies a harsh assessment of others that distances us from them, rendering them unfit in our eyes. The host illustrates this concept with a personal anecdote about feeling judgmental toward a stranger in a public setting. This example highlights how easy it is to pass judgment without understanding the full context of another person's life.

Jesus warns that the measure we use to judge others will be the same measure applied to us. This serves as a reminder that our judgments often reflect our own shortcomings and self-centeredness. The host encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and recognize their vulnerabilities, which can foster empathy and reduce the tendency to judge others harshly.

The Call to Discernment

In contrast to judgment, discernment is about making wise decisions based on understanding and insight. The host explains that discernment involves recognizing the direction one should take without the condemnation that judgment entails. Jesus invites us to discern wisely, particularly in our own lives, by addressing our own issues first—symbolized by the "plank" in our eye before we attempt to help others with their "specks."

This process of self-examination is crucial. The host emphasizes that understanding our own flaws and engaging in personal growth allows us to approach others with compassion rather than condemnation. It is through this lens of humility that we can genuinely assist others in their struggles.

Practical Applications of Discernment

The episode outlines several practical ways to cultivate discernment:


Self-Reflection: Engaging in a "searching and fearless moral inventory" of oneself helps identify personal shortcomings and fosters a deeper understanding of how our actions affect others.


Setting Boundaries: The phrase "Do not give dogs what is sacred" serves as a metaphor for using our resources wisely. It encourages us to be intentional about where we invest our time, energy, and emotional capacity, ensuring that we are not manipulated or drawn into unhealthy dynamics.


Asking Abundantly: The host encourages listeners to ask God for guidance and support in alignment with His kingdom values. This involves praying for justice, compassion, and healing, which aligns our hearts with God's purposes.


Recognizing Fruit: Jesus teaches that we can identify people by their fruit—good trees bear good fruit, while bad trees bear bad fruit. The host stresses the importance of observing the lives of those around us to discern their true character, rather than relying solely on their words.

The podcast episode ultimately invites listeners to embrace the journey of practicing discernment over judgment. By focusing on our own growth and understanding, we can engage with others in a way that reflects the love and grace of God. This approach not only strengthens our relationships but also builds a solid foundation for our lives, allowing us to withstand the storms that come our way. The invitation is clear: participate actively in the kingdom of God by cultivating a spirit of discernment that leads to genuine love and support for others.

To effectively help others, one must first address their own issues and shortcomings, as highlighted by the metaphor of removing the plank from one's own eye before assisting others with their specks. This concept is rooted in the teachings of Jesus, particularly in Matthew chapter 7, where He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and personal integrity before offering guidance or correction to others.

In this podcast episode, the host delves into the critical distinction between judgment and discernment as taught by Jesus in Matthew chapter 7 of the Sermon on the Mount. This chapter begins with the well-known admonition, "Do not judge, or you too will be judged." However, the episode emphasizes that this directive does not preclude the necessity of discernment in our interactions with others.
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 [&quot;aiblock&quot;,{&quot;prompt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;preview&quot;:false,&quot;block&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;blk_01JVA9G90Y7VDTEHTRGRDC0JMH&quot;,&quot;status&quot;:&quot;succeeded&quot;,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;summary&quot;,&quot;selected_variation&quot;:0,&quot;variations&quot;:[&quot;In this episode of \&quot;How to Study the Bible,\&quot; we continue our \&quot;Taking Action\&quot; series with a focus on outward actions as taught in the Sermon on the Mount. The host dives into Matthew chapter 7, discussing the importance of not judging others while reflecting on our own shortcomings. Key verses emphasize the need for self-awareness and humility before offering help to others. Listeners are encouraged to adopt an outward focus in their faith practice, aligning their actions with Jesus' teachings. Join us for practical insights and encouragement as we explore living into the kingdom of God. Don&rsquo;t forget to subscribe for more episodes!&quot;],&quot;configuration&quot;:null,&quot;prosemirror&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;rootblock&quot;,&quot;content&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;paragraph&quot;,&quot;content&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;text&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;In this episode of \&quot;How to Study the Bible,\&quot; we continue our \&quot;Taking Action\&quot; series with a focus on outward actions as taught in the Sermon on the Mount. The host dives into Matthew chapter 7, discussing the importance of not judging others while reflecting on our own shortcomings. Key verses emphasize the need for self-awareness and humility before offering help to others. Listeners are encouraged to adopt an outward focus in their faith practice, aligning their actions with Jesus' teachings. Join us for practical insights and encouragement as we explore living into the kingdom of God. Don&rsquo;t forget to subscribe for more episodes!&quot;}]}]}],&quot;previous_block&quot;:null,&quot;next_block&quot;:null,&quot;error_code&quot;:null,&quot;feedback&quot;:null},&quot;template&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;summary&quot;}},&quot;rootblock&quot;,null]">The Nature of Judgment
In this context, " judgment " refers to a private opinion that often carries a sense of condemnation or punishment. It implies a harsh assessment of others that distances us from them, rendering them unfit in our eyes. The host illustrates this concept with a personal anecdote about feeling judgmental toward a stranger in a public setting. This example highlights how easy it is to pass judgment without understanding the full context of another person's life.
Jesus warns that the measure we use to judge others will be the same measure applied to us. This serves as a reminder that our judgments often reflect our own shortcomings and self-centeredness. The host encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and recognize their vulnerabilities, which can foster empathy and reduce the tendency to judge others harshly.
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 [&quot;aiblock&quot;,{&quot;prompt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;preview&quot;:false,&quot;block&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;blk_01JVA9G90Y7VDTEHTRGRDC0JMH&quot;,&quot;status&quot;:&quot;succeeded&quot;,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;summary&quot;,&quot;selected_variation&quot;:0,&quot;variations&quot;:[&quot;In this episode of \&quot;How to Study the Bible,\&quot; we continue our \&quot;Taking Action\&quot; series with a focus on outward actions as taught in the Sermon on the Mount. The host dives into Matthew chapter 7, discussing the importance of not judging others while reflecting on our own shortcomings. Key verses emphasize the need for self-awareness and humility before offering help to others. Listeners are encouraged to adopt an outward focus in their faith practice, aligning their actions with Jesus' teachings. Join us for practical insights and encouragement as we explore living into the kingdom of God. Don&rsquo;t forget to subscribe for more episodes!&quot;],&quot;configuration&quot;:null,&quot;prosemirror&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;rootblock&quot;,&quot;content&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;paragraph&quot;,&quot;content&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;text&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;In this episode of \&quot;How to Study the Bible,\&quot; we continue our \&quot;Taking Action\&quot; series with a focus on outward actions as taught in the Sermon on the Mount. The host dives into Matthew chapter 7, discussing the importance of not judging others while reflecting on our own shortcomings. Key verses emphasize the need for self-awareness and humility before offering help to others. Listeners are encouraged to adopt an outward focus in their faith practice, aligning their actions with Jesus' teachings. Join us for practical insights and encouragement as we explore living into the kingdom of God. Don&rsquo;t forget to subscribe for more episodes!&quot;}]}]}],&quot;previous_block&quot;:null,&quot;next_block&quot;:null,&quot;error_code&quot;:null,&quot;feedback&quot;:null},&quot;template&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;summary&quot;}},&quot;rootblock&quot;,null]">The Call to Discernment
In contrast to judgment, discernment is about making wise decisions based on understanding and insight. The host explains that discernment involves recognizing the direction one should take without the condemnation that judgment entails. Jesus invites us to discern wisely, particularly in our own lives, by addressing our own issues first&mdash;symbolized by the "plank" in our eye before we attempt to help others with their "specks."
This process of self-examination is crucial. The host emphasizes that understanding our own flaws and engaging in personal growth allows us to approach others with compassion rather than condemnation. It is through this lens of humility that we can genuinely assist others in their struggles.
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 [&quot;aiblock&quot;,{&quot;prompt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;preview&quot;:false,&quot;block&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;blk_01JVA9G90Y7VDTEHTRGRDC0JMH&quot;,&quot;status&quot;:&quot;succeeded&quot;,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;summary&quot;,&quot;selected_variation&quot;:0,&quot;variations&quot;:[&quot;In this episode of \&quot;How to Study the Bible,\&quot; we continue our \&quot;Taking Action\&quot; series with a focus on outward actions as taught in the Sermon on the Mount. The host dives into Matthew chapter 7, discussing the importance of not judging others while reflecting on our own shortcomings. Key verses emphasize the need for self-awareness and humility before offering help to others. Listeners are encouraged to adopt an outward focus in their faith practice, aligning their actions with Jesus' teachings. Join us for practical insights and encouragement as we explore living into the kingdom of God. Don&rsquo;t forget to subscribe for more episodes!&quot;],&quot;configuration&quot;:null,&quot;prosemirror&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;rootblock&quot;,&quot;content&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;paragraph&quot;,&quot;content&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;text&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;In this episode of \&quot;How to Study the Bible,\&quot; we continue our \&quot;Taking Action\&quot; series with a focus on outward actions as taught in the Sermon on the Mount. The host dives into Matthew chapter 7, discussing the importance of not judging others while reflecting on our own shortcomings. Key verses emphasize the need for self-awareness and humility before offering help to others. Listeners are encouraged to adopt an outward focus in their faith practice, aligning their actions with Jesus' teachings. Join us for practical insights and encouragement as we explore living into the kingdom of God. Don&rsquo;t forget to subscribe for more episodes!&quot;}]}]}],&quot;previous_block&quot;:null,&quot;next_block&quot;:null,&quot;error_code&quot;:null,&quot;feedback&quot;:null},&quot;template&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;summary&quot;}},&quot;rootblock&quot;,null]">Practical Applications of Discernment
The episode outlines several practical ways to cultivate discernment:
<ol>
<li>
Self-Reflection: Engaging in a "searching and fearless moral inventory" of oneself helps identify personal shortcomings and fosters a deeper understanding of how our actions affect others.
</li>
<li>
Setting Boundaries: The phrase "Do not give dogs what is sacred" serves as a metaphor for using our resources wisely. It encourages us to be intentional about where we invest our time, energy, and emotional capacity, ensuring that we are not manipulated or drawn into unhealthy dynamics.
</li>
<li>
Asking Abundantly: The host encourages listeners to ask God for guidance and support in alignment with His kingdom values. This involves praying for justice, compassion, and healing, which aligns our hearts with God's purposes.
</li>
<li>
Recognizing Fruit: Jesus teaches that we can identify people by their fruit&mdash;good trees bear good fruit, while bad trees bear bad fruit. The host stresses the importance of observing the lives of those around us to discern their true character, rather than relying solely on their words.
</li>
</ol>
The podcast episode ultimately invites listeners to embrace the journey of practicing discernment over judgment. By focusing on our own growth and understanding, we can engage with others in a way that reflects the love and grace of God. This approach not only strengthens our relationships but also builds a solid foundation for our lives, allowing us to withstand the storms that come our way. The invitation is clear: participate actively in the kingdom of God by cultivating a spirit of discernment that leads to genuine love and support for others.
To effectively help others, one must first address their own issues and shortcomings, as highlighted by the metaphor of removing the plank from one's own eye before assisting others with their specks. This concept is rooted in the teachings of Jesus, particularly in Matthew chapter 7, where He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and personal integrity before offering guidance or correction to others.

As Christians, we want to experience God through the Bible… we really do!

But our good intentions fall flat when reading the Bible just doesn’t seem to help us experience God in a real way. What should feel dynamic and important and alive often feels confusing and boring and irrelevant. But it doesn’t have to feel this way.

In this bible study podcast, pastor and Bible teacher Nicole Unice brings life back to reading the Bible by walking listeners through her Alive Method of Bible study, helping us personally encounter God through His Word by giving us a practical, clear road map for understanding, interpreting and applying Scripture to our lives. 

Topics covered in this podcast:

💡 Three Common Obstacles to Understanding the Bible
💡The Basics of Bible Study (Observation, Interpretation) and How to Apple the Bible to Your Life
💡Deep Dive into Bible Studies by Books of the Bible (We've covered Ecclesiastes, Romans, Matthew, and more!)
💡 Topical Bible study lessons on Joy, Contentment, Prayer and more
💡 Spiritual Rhythms: Creating New Rhythms in Your Life
💡 4 Principles You Need to Interpret Difficult Scripture

To find more from Nicole, visit https://nicoleunice.com/.

As Christians, we want to experience God through the Bible… we really do! But our good intentions fall flat when reading the Bible just doesn’t seem to help us experience God in a real way. What should feel dynamic and important and alive often feels confusing and boring and irrelevant. But it doesn’t have to feel this way. In this bible study podcast, pastor and Bible teacher Nicole Unice brings life back to reading the Bible by walking listeners through her Alive Method of Bible study, helping us personally encounter God through His Word by giving us a practical, clear road map for understanding, interpreting and applying Scripture to our lives. 
Topics covered in this podcast:
💡 Three Common Obstacles to Understanding the Bible 💡The Basics of Bible Study (Observation, Interpretation) and How to Apple the Bible to Your Life 💡Deep Dive into Bible Studies by Books of the Bible (We've covered Ecclesiastes, Romans, Matthew, and more!) 💡 Topical Bible study lessons on Joy, Contentment, Prayer and more 💡 Spiritual Rhythms: Creating New Rhythms in Your Life 💡 4 Principles You Need to Interpret Difficult Scripture
To find more from Nicole, visit <a href="https://nicoleunice.com/">https://nicoleunice.com/</a>.

How to Study the Bible - Bible Study Made Simple

As Christians, we want to experience God through the Bible… we really do!

But our good intentions fall flat when reading the Bible just doesn’t seem to help us experience God in a real way. What should feel dynamic and important and alive often feels confusing and boring and irrelevant. But it doesn’t have to feel this way.

In this bible study podcast, pastor and Bible teacher Nicole Unice brings life back to reading the Bible by walking listeners through her Alive Method of Bible study, helping us personally encounter God through His Word by giving us a practical, clear road map for understanding, interpreting and applying Scripture to our lives. 

Topics covered in this podcast:

💡 Common Obstacles to Understanding the Bible
💡The Basics of Bible Study (Observation, Interpretation) and How to Apple the Bible to Your Life
💡Deep Dive into Bible Studies by Books of the Bible (We've covered Ecclesiastes, Romans, Matthew, and more!)
💡 Topical Bible Study Lessons on Joy, Contentment, Prayer and More
💡 Spiritual Rhythms: Creating New Rhythms in Your Life
💡 Principles You Need to Interpret Difficult Scripture

To find more from Nicole, visit https://nicoleunice.com/.

As Christians, we want to experience God through the Bible… we really do! But our good intentions fall flat when reading the Bible just doesn’t seem to help us experience God in a real way. What should feel dynamic and important and alive often feels confusing and boring and irrelevant. But it doesn’t have to feel this way. In this bible study podcast, pastor and Bible teacher Nicole Unice brings life back to reading the Bible by walking listeners through her Alive Method of Bible study, helping us personally encounter God through His Word by giving us a practical, clear road map for understanding, interpreting and applying Scripture to our lives. 
Topics covered in this podcast:
💡 Common Obstacles to Understanding the Bible 💡The Basics of Bible Study (Observation, Interpretation) and How to Apple the Bible to Your Life 💡Deep Dive into Bible Studies by Books of the Bible (We've covered Ecclesiastes, Romans, Matthew, and more!) 💡 Topical Bible Study Lessons on Joy, Contentment, Prayer and More 💡 Spiritual Rhythms: Creating New Rhythms in Your Life 💡 Principles You Need to Interpret Difficult Scripture
To find more from Nicole, visit <a href="https://nicoleunice.com/">https://nicoleunice.com/</a>.

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