Matthew 7:1, 2

Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 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 7:1, 2

This Bible verse is so often misunderstood to mean we should not judge at all, ever, no way! This is not so. What this verse is saying is the we are not to make hasty and harsh judgments, or uncharitable judgments against someone. When we use judgment to elevate our own self over and above someone, when we feel there is no good quality found in another such as what we possess, we judge cruelly and hastily. When we judge without allowance for circumstance, we are unnecessarily judging another. It is a warning against prejudice and one-sidedness, for until we hear both sides, we cannot know the fullness of the circumstances. Jesus never prevented civil judgments upon evil doers, or the church if there was disorder found within, or in its leaders. He does not forbid us judging others by their fruit, which shows their heart inclinations. What He does not desire in us is to have a fault-finding spirit, or the disposition to condemn without examining the charges against another in full. How we measure others, will in effect, determine how God will measure us. He takes note of our unkind and harsh spirit when it comes to others. What we sow is what we reap. This does not mean that we should not judge sin, or, be discerning in following those who would lead us astray. This verse is not a silencing of voice, it is not, “you don’t have the right to tell me I’m wrong!” We are to discern right from wrong in morality and in truth!

Devotion by Pastor Julia