Don’t Judge.

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” – Jesus

If we’re honest this is tough right? It can be so easy to judge others and hold them to a standard that’s higher than we would even hold ourself to. But Jesus is pretty clear, do not judge or we too will be judged.

When Jesus tells us not to judge others, he isn’t saying we should be robotically tolerant of everyone and everything, this would negate his teachings on being discerning (Matt. 10:16). Essentially, he is teaching us to keep a sweet spirit and avoid becoming critical and cynical, like the Pharisees.

Here’s a little self-check you can do to see if a “Pharisee spirit” is developing in you:

• Do you easily find fault in others? 

• Does is make you feel good to find faults in others?

• Do you feel superior to others when you match your strengths against their weaknesses?

• Do you delight in providing criticism?

• Do you find it difficult to forgive others?

Let’s be real, most of us would have answered yes to at least one of those questions. I know I did.

I believe the remedy to a “Pharisee spirit” is honest self-reflection and humility. In doing so we come to realise that we ought to give grace to others in the same way that God gave grace to us. From this vantage point we can surrender our criticisms and judgement and simply love people as God has asked us to love them.

Billy Graham is quoted as saying; “It’s the Holy Spirit’s job to convict, God’s job to judge, and my job to love.”

The role of JUDGE is a position that has already been filled. You need not apply.

The role of ACCUSER OF THE BRETHEREN is a position that has already been filled. You need not apply.

The role of AMBASSADOR FOR CHRIST still has vacancies. Can you start tomorrow?