Judgments of Others
Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
Matthew 7:1-2
We are told from this verse that the way we judge others is the way we will be judged. The definition of judgment is: “The ability to make considered decisions or come to sensible conclusions.” In accordance with this definition we often make judgments whenever we talk to others, but what we say and do based on our judgments is critical. Do we judge like the world or do we judge with a heart of love and compassion? Do we prematurely judge people based on their appearance or status, or do we see the heart of people and the love God has for them?
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. (Philippians 2:3) We are to reflect Christ to everyone and see them as the Lord sees them. How often do we choose not to associate with some people because Satan puts negative thoughts about them in our minds. This is the worldly nature that we overcome when our hearts are filled with God’s love and we see their infinite value to God. Love your neighbor as yourself. (Matthew 13:31). We show unconditional love to everyone. However, this doesn’t mean we have brotherly love for them. We are to pray for our enemies but do we have brotherly love for our enemies? We reflect God’s love, agape love. Agape love means we want the best for others, and we want them to know the Lord.
We make judgments about others as we get to know them. These judgments give us a better understanding of their needs, both physical and spiritual, and we are better able to help them. When we judge we are searching for the good, but the bad may also be revealed in a person. We don’t normally tell them the bad that we see, but instead lead them in a Godly direction to help change their sinful behavior. Normally, we don’t tell people what to do. Rather, we bring them to the Lord and His Word or the Holy Spirit convicts them.
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. (1 Thessalonians 5:11) This verse should be our standard when meeting with others, no matter what the situation. This is being a Light from Christ to them, reflecting God’s love and importance to them. The verse above should be our goal after making all judgments. We want to respond with God’s love and hope.
Today, if you make judgments or conclusions about others, let it trigger love and compassion to help them. Remember, if we judge others with a caring heart, then that is the mercy we will receive from God.
Let’s pray: Lord, help me to understand others and handle all observations with your love and compassionate heart. Guide me through the Spirit to have the wisdom to help others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.