Silence Personal Criticism

• 1 John 3:18 (TNIV)
• 1 John 3:19 (TNIV)
• 1 John 3:20 (TNIV)
• 1 John 3:21 (TNIV)
• 1 John 3:22 (TNIV)
• 1 John 3:23 (TNIV)

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It's interesting that these verses focus on quieting self-criticism.  The writer is basically saying, "practice love and it will silence the self-criticism in our lives." 

You could make an argument that when we criticize ourselves, we're actually being selfish.  It takes a great deal of self-focusing to hate yourself.  Perhaps the writer is saying, "Do you see the connection?  When you practice real love for others, you lose the unhealthy focus on yourselves."  Maybe there's even a more mysterious spiritual connection there as well.  Embracing God's love for others changes us.

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