We’ve all heard the old advice: “If you can’t say something good about somebody, don’t say anything at all”. This Sunday at Richland Center Free Methodist Church, Pastor Tim explores the heart behind that sentiment in a message titled “Overcoming a Critical Spirit”. Drawing from James 4:1-12, we look at how the root of all sin is ultimately self. When we find ourselves in fights or quarrels, James points us back to the desires that battle within us, showing that these destructive conflicts are always harmful to our community.

The message dives into the danger of sitting in judgment of others, reminding us that when we slander or judge a brother or sister, we are actually speaking against the law itself. Since there is only one Lawgiver and Judge who is able to save and destroy, we must ask ourselves who we are to judge our neighbor. Instead of prideful judgment, Scripture calls us to a different path: submitting ourselves to God and resisting the devil so that he will flee from us.

Join us as we walk through practical steps to overcome a critical spirit. From purifying our hearts to grieving and repenting in sincerity, the goal is to draw near to God so that He will come near to us.

Recorded Sunday, March 1st, 2026 Message by Pastor Tim Ward Scripture: James 4:1-12