Faults

<<blunders, blemishes>>

Pilate said of Jesus, “I find no fault in Him” as He walked in complete submission to the Father and did not sin (Jn 18:38, 19:4,6; 1 Pet 2:22). The rest of us have imperfections and faults; even those who seem faultless, have their blemishes because all who have lived on earth are sinners except Jesus (1 Sam 29:3; Dan 6:4; Rom 3:23). With love and patience, make allowances for the faults and failings of others (Eph 4:2; 1 Pet 4:8). If a person is never at fault in what they say, they are perfect (Jas 3:2). Have you met anyone who is?

Rather than cutting a person down with ridicule, criticism or spreading gossip, pray for them and where appropriate address the issue, offering guidance or insight (Mt 18:15; Gal 6:1). Most people welcome suggestions and advice to assist them to become better people provided it is done in a humble, loving

Am I overcoming my faults?

manner in private, especially if there is an understanding that they can also speak into your blind areas if considered appropriate. Ideally, compliment them prior to and again after pointing out their faults (Rev 2:2-6,13-16,19,20). The motive is to see the person restored and develop to their full potential through “Doing to others as you would they do to you” (Lk 6:31).

We subconsciously maximise the failings of others and minimise our own. Rather than point out the faults of others, it is our responsibility to face up to our faults and with God’s help seek to correct them (Mt 7:1-5). Excuses are attempts to justify a mistake; they do not resolve a thing. We are to confess our faults to others (Jas 5:16). This requires humility and accountability.

Obviously, we should bear the deserved consequences and suffering from our mistakes and faults, however it is honouring to God if when doing good we suffer for it. In such circumstances we are identifying with Christ who suffered in our place and committed Himself to God the righteous judge (Lk 23:40,41; 1 Pet 2:19,20). Jesus is able to present us before God without fault because through His blood we are made righteous (Jud 1:24). Aim to live up to it.

David prayed, “Forgive my hidden faults” (the unknowingly committed sins of ignorance), besides the deliberate sins committed in rebellion to God’s known laws (Ps 19:12, 51:1-7, 139:23,24).

Those opposed to Daniel could find no faults (corruption) in his life (Dan 6:4). What a testimony!

See also: blame, correction, criticism, excuse, judging.