Have you ever found yourself quick to judge someone else’s actions or choices? Maybe it’s a coworker, a distant acquaintance on social media, or even a family member. Judging others seems almost instinctual at times, doesn’t it? But what if we paused to consider the impact of our judgements?
Let me share a story with you. Years ago, I knew a local pastor who faced a moral failure. It was a humbling experience for all involved. But what struck me most was the wisdom of a mentor who said, “Remember, we are all just one dumb decision away from being that guy!” Those words stayed with me, reminding me of the danger of judging others without recognizing our own vulnerabilities.
Judging others is a delicate subject. We’ve all been on the receiving end of judgement, and chances are, we’ve dished it out too. It’s a common perception that Christians are particularly judgmental, and unfortunately, studies support this belief. According to research by the Barna Group and LifeWay Research, many young adults and unchurched individuals view Christians as hypocritical and judgmental.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses the issue of judgement, urging us to hear His words, do them, and build our families on His teachings. He commands us plainly: “Do not judge, so that you will not be judged.” This isn’t a suggestion; it’s a straightforward directive. When we judge others, we create division and hypocrisy within our communities.
Jesus illustrates this point vividly with a humorous analogy of a speck and a plank in someone’s eye. It’s a reminder to focus on our own shortcomings before pointing out others’. Hypocrisy creeps in when we hold others to a standard we ourselves fail to meet.
But Jesus doesn’t just warn against judgement; He also calls us to exercise discernment. We’re to be wise about sharing holy truths with those who may not receive them well. It’s a delicate balance between judgement and discernment, requiring us to be slow to speak and quick to listen.
Ultimately, Jesus sets the perfect example of mercy over judgement. He bore our judgement on the cross so we could receive His mercy. As we reflect on His grace, may we strive to build families marked by the gospel, where love and forgiveness abound.
So, as we navigate our relationships, let’s ask ourselves: Are we known for our judgement or our mercy? Is there a log in our own eye that needs addressing? And are we exercising discernment with humility and grace?
Remember, forgiveness is available for our judgemental attitudes. Let’s embrace the mercy we’ve received and extend it to others. And may the love of Christ fill our hearts as we seek to build relationships rooted in His grace.