Tag: faith

An Eye-ronic Metaphor: A SOAP Study on Matthew 7:1–5

Leave a comment

Scripture: Matthew 7:1-5

In Matthew 7:1–5, Jesus gives one of His most quoted—and arguably most misunderstood—teachings:

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged…Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?”

Spoken during the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus describes the character of those who belong to the Kingdom of Heaven. His words are not a proscription against discernment but a warning against hypocrisy and self-righteous condemnation.

But how can we apply this to our everyday lives, our relationships, and even our jobs?

As always, let’s dive in.

Observations and Applications:

1. “Do Not Judge” — What Jesus Is Not Saying

In today’s world, “Do not judge” is generally used to discourage behavior evaluation and sin identification. However, that interpretation doesn’t hold up in context, as a few verses later (Matthew 7:15), Jesus implores discernment, instructing his followers to “watch out for false prophets.” As we see throughout Scripture, particularly in Paul’s letters, believers are called to evaluate teaching, fruit, and conduct.

Thus, we can deduce that Jesus is not encouraging silent tongues in the face of injustice but rather confronting a posture of superiority, eager to point out faults in others while remaining blind to one’s own.

2. The Speck and the Log — A Deliberate Exaggeration

While some picture Jesus as straight to the point in sermons, this passage reveals one of the unique ways He expressed humanity through humor and exaggeration to make certain truths vivid.

Consider the contrast:

  • A speck of sawdust in someone else’s eye.
  • A massive plank lodged in your own.

The image is absurd. Imagine someone trying to perform eye surgery while a two-by-four is sticking out of their face. Crazy, right? Well, maybe not so fast, given this embellishment exposes our tendency to minimize our own sin and magnify the faults of others,

Note the metaphor’s tie-in to unholy offense. Any time we hold a grudge or foster bitterness and resentment in our hearts, we invert this order. Either we expect the other side to yield first, or we assume the speck is on our side.

Yet, the comparison infers, neither option is correct; hence, His warning: “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged.”

Essentially, Jesus is cautioning us to a familiar theme in Scripture: The measure we use becomes the measure applied to us. God opposes hypocrisy because it misrepresents His character and misappropriates humility. When we judge harshly, we assume a role that belongs to God. When we judge mercilessly, we forget how much mercy we ourselves have received.

3. “First, take the Log Out.”

Notice Jesus does not say, “Ignore the speck in your brother’s eye,” but charges us to “First take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck.”

Why this direction? For starters, at the heart of love is mercy, and mercy, by nature, does not condemn but seeks to restore and transform through constructive insight.

Knowing this, we can confidently confront our sin by:

  • Approaching others gently.
  • Correcting without cruelty.
  • Speaking truth without pride.
  • Extending grace without reciprocity.

Only when humility meets repentance will our correction convey in an empowering and encouraging way.

4. A Diagnostic Question

Before addressing someone else’s failure, we must ask ourselves some clarifying questions:

  • Have I honestly examined my own heart?
  • Am I motivated by love or by irritation?
  • Do I desire restoration or vindication?
  • Have I invited God to expose my blind spots?

Taking this inventory, we align ourselves to an essential truth: Judgment that flows from humility leads to healing; judgment that flows from pride leads to division.

5. The Gospel Lens

Ultimately, Matthew 7:1–5 drives us back to the Gospel, where at the Cross, we discern two clear truths:

  1. Our sin is serious enough to require sacrifice.
  2. God’s grace is abundant enough to forgive it.

When we live at the foot of the cross, arrogance dissolves. We remember that we are recipients of mercy before we are dispensers of correction. The person who knows they have been forgiven does not wield judgment carelessly.

Final Thoughts & Prayer

Matthew 7:1–5 is not a call to oral silence but to moral integrity. As modeled during His ministry, Jesus invites us into a community marked by:

  • Self-awareness
  • Repentance
  • Mercy
  • Clear-eyed love

However, to fully abide in this series, we must repent of any place where we find safety in critiquing over confessing and/or analyzing another’s pride before confronting our own.

Bottom line: Before we reach for someone else’s speck, dare to kneel with your own log. Once immersed in that posture—low, honest, dependent—it’s only a matter of time until you begin to see clearly again.

Let’s pray…

“Heavenly Father. We commit this study, this day into your hands. We ask you seal your truth into our hearts. May it not vacate our ears or return void. Continue to teach us how to forgive, how to timely release our offenses. Refine this quality in our spirits so we can better illuminate the fullness of your love. We receive your grace afresh and anew with the aim to extend what you’ve blessed and equipped us with. Whether we’re poor in spirit or riding high in faith, reveal to us logs to extract so we can maturely handle the specks we encounter. In your holy, precious name, we declare victory in this area as we conform to your likeness. May it be so. May it be done. We love you, Lord. Amen.”

Cover graphic creds: Goodsnewtext

‘Project’ Management: How to Live in the Joy of Our Divine Security (Intro)

Leave a comment

Two months into grief counseling, I’ve been thinking about certain deterrents, specifically those that rob our security in Christ. 

Why is it so many take momentary solace in the Lord, yet overall, feel less assured within His sovereignty? Why are some content in their acceptance of Jesus, but not in their walk with Him? 

Looking in the mirror, I’ve been compelled to take inventory, in part, to assist the new support I have on the ground. The fact I’m even in this position is a huge answer to prayer. 

Still, the reality and discovery alike are uncomfortable; hence, why I’m on the hunt for words, wisdom, and answers. What makes one want the safety of God’s protection without the anchoring? What keeps a man sealed but at times, unhinged? How is it one can mentally grasp his identity in Christ but not rest in his position in Christ? 

These inquiries are but a few I hope to address in this new ‘Project Management’ series.

Before we continue, let me define “project management” in this context. Because I can tell you straight up: I’m not talking about an application of knowledge and tools to project activities. Rather, I’m highlighting the human condition to project our insecurities when we’re dislodged from the truth, when we’re overwhelmed to the point what we’re doing to others is reciprocally perceived. 

Sometimes, we project insecurity out of feeling misjudged and misunderstood. Other times, we project insecurity to obtain a false sense of disconnection. Ever wonder why we play the victim card when we’re hurt and offended? Usually, the reason involves a desire to cast off our pain to fight or flight from it. The problem when we project insecurity, be it a suspicion, self-doubt, a reassurance craving, or unbridled fear, is we misappropriate humility and, in turn, miss opportunities to deal with offenses at their root level. Understandably, an insecure mindset can be taxed when confronting pride on top of everything else; however, we must realize if our belief in the reality of Christ is chained to seeing Him consistently reflected in the places He’s called us to, we can’t say we’re fully relying on Him. It’s one thing to be desperate for Christ to be known; it’s another to want His nature extended for our benefit. 

Thankfully, by God’s grace, we have His Spirit to draw us to misaligned places needing correction (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 12:11). In many situations, this is enough to mitigate an insecurity before it matures into a weapon. Yet, for those who are suffering at a high level, wrestling with grief, perhaps not as aware due to a medical condition and/or neurodivergence, certain behaviors and thought patterns may be more suppressed. What about these cases? 

My theory is simple, though with application complexity under the surface:

Insecurity is a divergent manifestation of underlying thoughts straying from any root where freedom can be found.

In essence, it is a projection away from our original design by way of comparison, manufactured deficit filling, really any vehicle driving us away from surrender and reliance. Often, we project out, not up, when we’re shelled by concerns and anxieties outside our control or initiation. The question is: How do we project our way to Jesus, when the streams we’re in take us another way? For those in healthy places, how do we nurture cultures where God’s heart is evident, His power prevalent?

If I’m truly following Jesus for the sake of emulating Him, I’m not only putting myself in position to abide in my security in Christ, but also giving those around me a steppingstone foundation to orient accordingly. Put another way, our security in Christ ​doesn’t stop at the assurance of salvation but strengthens as we freely abide from the burden of condemnation, accept the credit of Christ’s righteousness (Romans 4:24), and replace unholy beliefs with radical, transformative truths. Adhering to this pathway, we can discover a new confidence amidst the freedom that purifies the way we love and partner with people. 

So, may it be with this series – that those in need of purified projection find traction and momentum, where they can live secured in their walk with Christ. Buckle up, my friends. It’s going to be a fun, albeit bumpy ride as we journey closer to the Son. 

Cover graphic creds: Chuck Pierce

Commit, Then Trust: A Key to Life in 2026

Leave a comment

Well, folks. A new year is upon us. Time to take inventory of the good, the bad, and yes, the awesome!

For some, 2025 was a rough year, easily worth leaving behind; for others, the year wasn’t so bad, perhaps the kind one can build from. Regardless of the narrative, there’s a way to find footing and advance with confidence into the new year. While the steps are unique depending on the person and situation, there exists a holy outline from which we can corporately adhere; hence, why I’m sparing no time (and expense) in publishing this post.

As always, let’s dive in…

Some of you may recall last year’s post, in which I challenged us to invite God into our midst and request a divine reset. This year, my thoughts are more centered on the notion presented to us in Psalm 37:5 and Proverbs 16:3.

  • “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.” ~ Psalm 37:5
  • “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” ~ Proverbs 16:3

Assessing these two passages¹, one quickly notes how these passages emphasize ‘commit’; specifically, we’re not called to trust God, then commit our ways, but to commit our ways and let God establish our steps as we trust. To me, this order is more than significant; it’s a complete game-changer. Often, when we perceive our faith as ‘half-mast’, we assume we must raise it to ‘full’ before we can ask God for anything, be it clarity, an intervention, or a modicum of peace. However, that’s not at all what the Psalmist is suggesting.

Rather, his imploration for us is to commit our ways to the Lord, regardless of how we feel, and marvel as He reveals and straightens our paths. Granted, this doesn’t mean the journey will be easy or lack detours and scenic routes. Certainly, there may be times when we struggle out of the gate, get off track, and/or wander into uncalled/unchartered territory; however, the beauty of committing our way unto the Lord is not only its simple starting point but in its liberating follow-through. If you ever wonder what you have to lose by clinging to Jesus, the answer is always a detriment to where you want to go and, more importantly, who you are designed to be. I’m looking at you, pride, ego, fear, jealousy, and anger, just to name a few.

I don’t know about you, but I desire to tap into holy curiosity more in 2026 than ever before. Sometimes, I succumb to partial surrender and stray from steadfast belief. It happens to the best of us. Yet, as long as I have breath, I long to praise the Lord from a heart that desires integrity and congruity in all things.

God save me from the places, even curses of old, that sought to discourage me past the point of fair application. Keep me steady on the straight and narrow, so I may be vertically anchored while pointing people to Jesus as the appropriate steps are taken. I may not fully grasp how the journey has evolved, I may not know where I’m going, and I may struggle with occasional distractions. But Christ in me, the hope of glory, I will not give up on the God who doesn’t give up on me. I may not understand the next move or where I’m at; however, I can still choose to reset and abide in you as I pour out my aims, goals, and hurts.

To those who felt 2025 was a ‘step back’ kind of year, I want to encourage you not to lose hope, to seek help and wisdom, and to abandon any internal space where hate and pride may be marinating. I say this as one who struggled last year, believing the lie that God abandoned him through the saints and past vocational misplacements.

Yet, as one who is back in counseling for the first time post-Jubilee, I employ you, my friends, not to grow weary. By all means, in prayer, and with God, don’t be overcome by evil or withhold love to your brother. Instead, confess hope, encourage each other, and press onward with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. From there, pause, be still, and watch what God will do. You got this, as hard as it may be to believe right now.

He will renew your strength, revive your bones, and reset your course. All you have to do is submit and surrender.

Cover graphic creds: AI iStock/Canva

Footnotes

  1. Also see Proverbs 16:9; Psalm 32:8

Year in Review: A Look Back at 2025

Leave a comment

Normally, I savor the opportunity to recap a year, to recount 12 months’ worth of Fry-lights; however, so much has been hitting differently these days. Since I still believe in the practice, I’ll forge ahead, but for the record, this will likely be a prequel to a more upbeat sequel next December. Consider that a life forecast of sorts.

On paper, there’s not much to highlight, at least personally. While last year starred as a bounce-back with arrows pointing up, this year saw more of the opposite. Support systems faded, turnstiles were active, and former friends and colleagues fell off the map. Like any annual review, there’s much I could say about what went right and what went wrong. For now, less is more. I’m still standing, encouraged in how I’m postured heading into 2026 and by faith, declare it to be a banner year during which three and a half years of net spiraling will cease. A new Refuge Center odyssey awaits; heavenly Father, open up the floodgates!

For Lys and the kids, 2025 was a step-in-the-right-direction kind of year, especially on the education front. After completing a strong three-semester run at Arrows Academy Tutorial in May, we applied for scholarships to return Caeden and Everly to Greater Things Christian School. By God’s grace, we not only enrolled Caeden and Everly at Greater Things but also found the right school and accommodations for Milo to begin at Kingston Springs Elementary. A huge set of wins for our family at large!

With the older three in a Monday-Friday routine, Lys has been able to find new rhythms of her own. Despite an unexpected pregnancy, she stayed on board as a teacher at Arrows Academy while starting a TikTok affiliate marketing business in August and assisting me with the communications at our local church. As a mom, she continues to amaze me with how she enhances family morale. Like me, the bereavement grief is still active and at times, intense; however, her progression in recent years has benefited many who have engaged her story.  No question, her life continues to touch and inspire many.

Among the year’s milestones, two stand out: 

  1. On April 27, we dedicated Everly, Milo, and Aili at The Gate Church after years of delay thanks to COVID-19 and our year at the NICU. We are grateful to see how our kids have responded spiritually, despite the trauma they’ve faced. Much appreciation to Greater Things and The Gate’s Children Ministry for investing so much life and truth into them.
  2. On December 17, we welcomed the arrival of Jori Grace who now completes our family circle. As our second rainbow baby, we’re eager to nurture this life while watching God move through her as she grows and develops. 

Concerning passion projects, there are several big news items on the board, though currently on hold. Currently, Lys and I anticipate the launch of Jubilee’s Hope as an incorporated non-profit by this time next year. With three NICU outreaches under our belt, raising a total of almost $8,000 combined, we plan to ‘umbrella’ future endeavors by providing NICU families with resources, spiritual support, and even household support during their respective journeys. As for Jubilee’s book, I’m happy to report that after months of searching, I’ve found an editor who will help take my manuscript to the next level. A promising development to complement the nonprofit dream!

Regarding ministerial assignments, Lys and I paused our virtual While We’re Waiting support group in November to pursue greater healing. With a new lead, we hope to transition and tag-team this into an on-site group during the second half of next year. As for His Girl Fryday, we shattered our prior hit mark with ~12,750 views in 2025 and hope to build upon that momentum. With more podcasts on tap in 2026, we’re hopeful our voice will find root in other outlets from our home base in Messenger Fellowship to new arenas.

As always, to you and yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas a Happy New Year!

~ Cameron, Lyssah, Caeden, Everly, Milo, Jubilee, Aili, and Jori Fry

Cover graphic creds: Advent Transportation

Road to Closure: A Fond Farewell to Centennial

Leave a comment

I’m strolling this corridor at Tristar Centennial, a place I never thought I’d see or walk again. Yesterday’s arrival of Jori Grace, our Little Bag Fry, our second rainbow, reminding us that the surprises of God, regardless of how we initially interpret them, are nevertheless extensions of His faithfulness. 

Unbeknownst to Lys and I coming into Jori’s birthday was the fact she would arrive the exact place in the same room where Jubilee debuted.

December 17, 2025

August 21, 2021

As you might suspect, this entrance was deeply and multi-emotional. Practically impossible to not think where things were four years ago. So much has changed, so much has progressed, so much new, so much next. 

As I’ve considered the time warp, I’ve latched onto a single word that has a precedence of peace. That word is ‘closure’. 

What does the Bible say about closure, closed loops, closing the gap, etc.? 

When we talk about closure, we’re often discussing what it means to find God’s grace and strength to endure, to discover His power in the context of forgiveness, perseverance, receiving help, ultimately turning and realigning to Jesus. 

It’s a word that merits a Christian worldview, since the world frames peace and good tidings primarily as functions of comfort, self-preservation, even open doors to better opportunities. However, in Scripture, we find similar evidence in God guiding us not only through new doors but closed doors

For example, I know it’s highly likely I will never be a guest patient at Centennial again. A somber thought since Lys and I have experienced so much life here. ‘Tis been a place where we’ve always felt vertically anchored, even if we were compelled into the posture.  Understandably, there’s a bit of melancholia in this birthing episode as redemption arches, past and present, meet a local farewell. 

Still, I’m encouraging by a certain notion. Anytime new life is given, we’re not just obliged into exuberant gratitude but to commit/recommit ourselves to the call we have to nurture that life in the ways of God, in the likeness of Christ. We may not feel like we have what need to navigate the struggle we encounter, as this season reminds us, we still have Jesus, with us and for us. 

So, whether I reference scars with onsite origin or those fresh within Lys who fielded her third c-section in four years, we recognize this renewed race as part of God’s work of restoration. And as this special time of year reminds us, where there’s restoration, there can be anticipation for what is good, given the source and omni-nature of Immanuel, in loss and pain, to life as fresh gain. 

To Centennial, it’s been real to the sweetest effect. I bid you all the fondest adieu and to the rest of you…

Cover photo creds: The Business Journals