It’s easy to judge each other and make assumptions. But is God asking us to be His judge, or to be His light in the world?
“Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” (Romans 14:13)
I can be a little judgmental. There, I admit it.
Like most Christians, I’d like to think I’m above that sort of thing. But it would only take you five minutes (okay, maybe two) to hear me judge another in the privacy of my own mind.
What is she wearing? Does his kid really need sugar at this hour? Where on earth did they learn to drive? Is that really the best use of your time?
Before you decide I’m a horrible person, take a moment to think back on your past interactions this week. Even our TVs are not immune to some judge-y comments. (I’m talking to you sports fans.)
Even knowing we ourselves are not perfect, it’s easy to fall into the role of judge and jury when we look at others. If we think we’re even slightly farther along on our parenting/working/relationship journey, we’re quick to toss out judgements and verdicts.
Which isn’t helpful at all.
We were not made to judge
Judging others is not our job. And stepping in to play the part is both prideful and disrespectful.
God alone can judge His people. He is the only one who sees our hearts. The only one who stands in a place of perfection, so he can be fair.
When Jesus lived as a man, He saw all that we see, the same temptations and hardships. He felt what we feel, the emotions and physical needs, like hunger. He walked in our shoes, but He never veered off the path.
“When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, ‘Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.'” (John 8:7)
Only those without sin can judge another’s. And since we don’t have membership in that club yet, we better hand back the judge’s robes and gavel.
What can we do instead?
Instead of being quick to judge, be quick to understand. Be quick to offer a kind word, to give grace, and to see another’s perspective.
If you don’t know what another person is going through, then you can’t judge the decisions they make. And if you see them sin, don’t bring them lower. Help them up.
If we are all God’s children, then we have a responsibility to watch out for one another’s welfare. Judging is an unkind and unhelpful activity. Our energy can be better spent elsewhere.
I hope today you will try to corral wayward thoughts, and offer a smile and some encouragement instead of an eye roll and a huff.
God needs us to be His light, not His judge.
Have a blessed Monday!
Looking for more encouragement and inspiration? Try these posts:
Inspirational Monday: Supporting Each Other in Trials
Inspirational Monday: What Does Real Friendship Look Like?
Inspirational Monday: Tough Love and Those Who Strengthen Us
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