Discernment Instead Of Judgment

Discernment Instead of Judgment

You may think you can condemn such people, but you are just as bad, and you have no excuse! When you say they are wicked and should be punished, you are condemning yourself, for you who judge others do these very same things. Romans 2:1

My mom and dad always taught us not to judge other people. They encouraged us to try to get an understanding of what others were going through, to try to walk in the other person’s shoes for a while. But even when all of that was done—which more than likely changed our perspective considerably—we were told not to judge.

Let me set up Romans 2:1 for you. In the first chapter of Romans, Paul introduces himself and then delves into the heart of the gospel—everyone has fallen short of God’s standard; neither Jews nor Gentiles have lived perfect lives.

People who knew God didn’t glorify Him or give thanks to Him; their hearts became darkened and filled with sinful desires. They became immoral and lustful, told lies, and were prone to all kinds of wickedness.

Paul wasn’t done with cataloging human depravity. They have been envious, murderous, deceitful, malicious, gossiping, slanderous, arrogant, senseless, faithless, heartless, and disobedient people.

But here’s the rub, Paul says in Romans 2:1. Don’t be quick to point your finger at those wicked people and condemn them. “You are just as bad, and you have no excuse!” We aren’t any more successful in keeping the law than anyone else. We all need God’s mercy and forgiveness. So be slow to judge.

I suggest a better approach for the moments when you’re ready to judge others. Discard judgment and use discernment, redirection, and encouragement instead. Be Jesus Christ’s hands and heart to help others to get to the bottom of their problems, redirect them, and encourage them to change.

If nothing else, it will do wonders for your own heart.

Uncommon Key > Do you tend to rush to judgment about people? Leave the judgment to the Judge and instead find ways to help change your opinions.