Central Truth

We do not like to be judged but we are quick to judge others. If we don't want to be judged by our actions, we should not do it to others.

Reflections

I watch several shows on television, such as "Dancing with the Stars" and "The X Factor", where people are judged by their dancing and musical abilities. I often wonder why people put themselves through such harsh trials to win a trophy or a large sum of money. The contestants are criticized for their dancing and/or musical ability. I often say, "I wouldn't want to be judged that way." Then I have to stop and think about how I often judge people based on their appearance or actions. Most of the time I have to repent for judging people unfairly. I don't like to be judged by my actions so I should not do it to other people.

I believe that this is the point that Jesus is making in Matthew 7 when he says "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 7:2, NIV) Do we want people to judge us as harshly as we may judge them? God forbid! Many times the faults we see in other people are also evident in our lives. This could be why we are judging them. As believers, let us examine ourselves before we examine others.

A psalm that I recite daily is Psalm 139:23-24 (NLT) "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life." Let us think on this psalm before we start judging other people. God bless!

Discussion Questions

1. Why am I judging others?

2. How can I stop judging other people?

3. Can I pray for the person (people) instead of judging them?