Read Matthew Chapter 7:1-6
Are You Judging Me?
Jesus starts by saying, “Do not judge or you too will be judged.” Jesus makes it clear that how we judge others is how we will also be judged by God. Judging someone with a heart of condemnation actually puts people down. They feel worthless while you exalt yourself above them. If you show Mercy to those struggling, God will show you Mercy.
Judgmental people all too often can see the sin in others but for whatever reason don’t see their own sin. Jesus is quick to say, “You hypocrite!” Jesus instructs us to take the sin out of our own life before we think about taking the sin out of our brother’s life.
What are the benefits of taking care of your sin before addressing the sin of others?
1. If I address my life first, I realize just how imperfect I really am and it’s humbling.
2. Once you are humbled by your sin, then you tend to be more loving and more apt to show Mercy and Compassion for others who are struggling with sin.
It’s hard to see repentance in another when we take the approach of belittling them. When I served at an inner city summer school, I was asked once to have a kid exit the school office. I jokingly said, “Gladly!” The inner city boy interpreted my response as if I was saying, “I’ll gladly get this bad kid out of here.” He was broken and sad and responded, ” You don’t really know me.” As if to be saying I’m not as bad as you think I am.
People just don’t respond well when they feel like they are worthless. But I’ve had people, many times say, they appreciate how I don’t condemn them, or judge them, and are encouraging by my words. Repentance is most apt to occur when confronted with mercy and encouragement. This doesn’t mean you can’t be firm with someone. Firmness mixed with a heart of love and encouragement can be powerful.
Vs 7, Jesus says do not give what is Holy to dogs or pigs lest they tear you to pieces. So if someone is not open to being encouraged to walk in truth, they may respond with much hate, anger, resentment, and say irrational comments in order to be little you versus having to repent of their sins. Once you notice that, it’s best to walk away and don’t engage in conversation. Walking away is the best approach in helping them feel sorry for how they responded.
