I have
come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should
stay in darkness. As for the person who hears my words but does not keep
them, I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to
save it. There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept
my words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day.
John 12:46-48
There is a fine line between discerning and judging. God commanded us
not to judge, or we will be judged with the same measure of judgment.
Jesus said He came to save the world, not to judge it. This does not
mean we, or anyone else, are off the hook concerning sin. We certainly
can’t stick our heads in the sand and ignore it. But it’s all too easy
to go to the extreme, making harsh and unfair judgments, based on our
limited knowledge. Let’s face it, in life some judgments have to be
made. The judicial system is a prime example. There has to be a
standard. We must be aware of false prophets, false teachings and sinful
acts in order to avoid them. If everything is acceptable and if there
were no standard of right or wrong, there would be chaos. A wise man is
aware of his limited knowledge, understanding he cannot pass judgment on
what is in another’s heart. Only God has the ability to see and
understand the heart and mind of others. If we don’t love, we don’t know
God. We are to love unconditionally, being tolerant, patient and
understanding with one another, but we need not recklessly accept every
act without careful evaluation, or attempt to soften or twist the truth.
God’s word is the standard, and all will ultimately be judged according
to it. Bottom line, our most important assignment is not worrying about
judging others, but mimicking Jesus, and leading the lost to Him.
Prayer
Forgive me for being a hindrance at times, and making harsh and reckless
judgments on others. Give me wisdom and understanding, so that I may
follow Your will and Your commands. Fill my heart with Your love and
compassion, that I may be patient and understanding with others, sharing
Your love and the truth of Your word with all. Amen.
