Judgment

judgment - What should I do when I find myself judging others?

Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged.

Matthew 7:1-2

Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.

Colossians 3:13

Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.

Ephesians 4:29

A JUDGMENTAL PERSON offers hurtful criticism that is not helpful. Constructive criticism, by contrast, is offered for the purpose of building a relationship and helping someone become who God has created them to be. As Christian women, we have a responsibility to be accountable to our community of believers, and sometimes that means giving or receiving feedback about how we can better follow God. But it is much easier to receive when it is offered gently and in love rather than in a harsh or humiliating way. Before you offer suggestions to others about how you think they should live, check your heart by asking God, “Are my words helpful? Kind? Encouraging? Needed?” If you can’t answer yes, refrain from commenting. Ask God to teach you the difference between judging and encouraging another person in the faith.

Prayer Prompts

Lord, whenever I’m tempted to make a judgment call, help me to . . .

Your Word instructs me to keep my heart clear of judgment by . . .