How to Change Lives: Matt. 7:1-12

Series: The Good Life: Learning to Live in a Complicated World Preached at Growing Faith Church, Liberty, NC May 24, 2026 1. See Clearly (vv. 1-6) 2. Pray Persistently (vv. 7-11) 3. Love Unconditionally (v. 12) Many Christians fall into the trap of trying to fix others by criticizing their behavior, but true change comes from heart transformation, not behavior modification. Jesus teaches us in Matthew 7 not to judge others harshly while ignoring our own flaws. Instead of trying to change people through criticism, we should pray persistently for their hearts to be transformed by God. The Golden Rule calls us to love others unconditionally, treating them as we would want to be treated, regardless of their response. When we understand the grace God has shown us, we can extend that same grace to others while trusting God to do the work of heart change.