WHAT NOT TO JUDGE
““Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” Matthew 7:1-2 NKJV
In Scripture, judging can mean discerning or testing something against the Word of God—an action that is both recommended and encouraged. What is discouraged, however, is judging another person’s standing before God or passing verdicts based on personal bias. That authority belongs to God alone.
Our theme verse has often been misused and weaponized, even by believers, leading many outside the faith to misunderstand and despise the Christian message. It has been rightly said that we judge ourselves by our intentions but judge others by their actions. If this were the true standard of justice, none of us could stand.
In 1 Corinthians 5:12, Paul draws a clear distinction between evaluating sin within the church, which is necessary for holiness, and condemning unbelievers, which is solely God’s responsibility. Likewise, believers are commanded to test every spirit, so as not to fall prey to false doctrine (1 John 4:1).
Child of God, take care not to overstep your God-given mandate. For the harsher your judgment in matters that are not yours to decide, the more severely that same measure will be applied to you. Selah.
Prayer: My Father, I thank you for this truth. Grant me a heart of humility and discernment. Teach me to weigh matters according to Your Word, without assuming Your throne of judgment over another’s soul. Keep me from prideful condemnation, and help me to walk in truth, grace, and mercy — in Jesus’ name. Amen.
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• John 7:24
• 1 Corinthians 2:15
• 1 Thessalonians 5:21
