The Measure You Use

Feb 1, 2026    Pastor Rev. Craig T. Smith

Discussion Questions


Week 4 — The Measure You Use (Luke 6:37–42)


Context Question

How does this passage fit within Luke 6 as a whole (blessings, love of enemies, then relationships within the community)? What does that progression reveal about kingdom life?


Judgment vs. Discernment

Jesus says, “Judge not,” yet Scripture also calls us to wisdom and discernment. What is the difference between self-righteous judgment and loving discernment?


The Measure We Use

Jesus connects how we treat others with how we understand grace. What does the way we “measure” others reveal about what we believe God is like?


Blind Guides

In what ways can people unknowingly become “blind guides” in families, churches, or online spaces? What kinds of influences most shape our vision today?


Logs and Specks

Why do you think it is often easier to notice flaws in others than in ourselves? What helps us become more honest about our own “logs”?


Grace in Close Relationships

This passage focuses on how we treat those closest to us. Where is it hardest for you to practice humility, patience, or forgiveness right now?


Gospel Connection

How does remembering that Jesus bore our judgment change the way we respond to others’ failures?


Living the Takeaway

What is one practical step you can take this week to extend grace rather than condemnation?


Daily Devotions

Monday–Saturday | Luke 6:37–42


Monday — Measured by Mercy

Scripture: Luke 6:37–38

Jesus links judgment, forgiveness, and generosity together. The “measure” we use toward others reflects what we believe about God’s grace. If we believe mercy is scarce, we ration it. If we trust God’s abundance, we give freely.

Reflect:

Where am I most tempted to be harsh instead of generous?

Prayer:

Lord, teach me to live from the abundance of Your mercy, not the fear of scarcity.


Tuesday — Seeing Clearly

Scripture: Luke 6:39–40

Jesus warns that formation is inevitable. We are always becoming something—and often leading others without realizing it. Blindness isn’t a lack of sincerity; it’s a lack of self-awareness.

Reflect:

Who or what is shaping the way I see others right now?

Prayer:

Jesus, give me clear sight shaped by Your truth and humility.


Wednesday — The Danger of Certainty

Scripture: Luke 6:39

Confidence without humility can be dangerous. Jesus reminds us that clarity without love leads to harm. Kingdom wisdom begins with acknowledging our limits.

Reflect:

Where might I be confident but unexamined?

Prayer:

God, slow me down when I rush to conclusions. Form my heart before my opinions.


Thursday — Logs First

Scripture: Luke 6:41–42

Jesus’ exaggerated image forces us to laugh—and then to repent. The issue isn’t noticing specks; it’s ignoring logs. Repentance clears our vision so restoration can follow.

Reflect:

What log might God be inviting me to address before speaking into someone else’s life?

Prayer:

Lord, search me gently and truthfully. I want to see clearly.


Friday — Grace Before Correction

Scripture: Luke 6:42

Correction rooted in grace restores rather than wounds. Jesus doesn’t remove our responsibility to help one another—He reshapes how we do it.

Reflect:

When I speak hard truth, is it marked by mercy?

Prayer:

Jesus, let my words reflect the grace You’ve shown me.


Saturday — The One Who Bore Our Judgment

Scripture: Romans 8:1; Luke 6:37

There is no condemnation for those in Christ. Jesus bore our judgment so we could live free—free to forgive, free to love, free to extend mercy.

Reflect:

How does freedom from condemnation change the way I see others?

Prayer:

Thank You, Jesus, for carrying my judgment. Shape my life by Your mercy.