Here Comes the Judge!

Sometimes I feel that I am so quick to judge!  “What possessed her to wear that outfit? Doesn’t she have a mirror?” or  “Why did they decide to do that?  Don’t they know what others will think?”  or   “Who wants to have that many children?”  or  “Really? I wouldn’t be caught dead in that car!”  or   “That house is too big – or in a bad neighborhood – or needs better landscaping.”  And the list goes on!   

We always think that we know better than others, but do we?  Do we understand the reasons behind their decisions?  Do we ever think that maybe our own decisions are subject to others’ judgements?    

Therefore you have no excuse, whoever you are, when you judge others; for in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, are doing the very same things.  (Romans 2:1)

That’s right!  We are condemning ourselves!  It would be so much better if we tried to be more thoughtful and accepting.  Stop being the Judge Judy of the world around us.  Let's turn in our badges to the style police!  Take our noses out of other peoples’ business unless we are invited in!

Here are seven things to consider (or in other words, 7 ways to spiritual perfection) when it comes to judgement!:

1.     We are all different and make choices based on our personal knowledge so it makes sense that others might not make the same choices as you!

2.     Did you ever consider that you might not know all the facts behind their decisions!

3.     Have you "walked a mile in their shoes" before judging their actions?

4.     Don’t be a meddler – keep your feelings to yourself!  You might be the only one who wants to hear them anyway!

5.     Might it be possible that these actions are pointing to some deeper issue?

6.     Before making a snap judgement, why not ask them why and see if there is a reason that makes sense!

7.     If this person is your friend, then remember that!  Try not to let this one action ruin a good friendship!

 

After taking these under consideration, maybe we will all be singing “Here GOES the judge!”

Let us therefore no longer pass judgment on one another, but resolve instead never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of another.  (Romans 14:12-13)