Scripture:
You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? (Romans 2:1-4)
Observation:
In this passage, Paul reveals two stark truths to us. The first is that we have no excuse or right to judge others, because God is the only righteous and just judge. Second, Paul tells us that those who judge others not only disobey God’s command; those that judge others also pass judgement and condemnation back upon themselves.
We are imperfect sinners who lack the ability to always perfectly see things from God’s perspective. Even if we think we know better or know the entirety of the Bible like the back of our hand, we still do not have the right to judge others––that job is solely God’s. As we have been forgiven, we must continually remember that God’s kindness exists to lead one to repentance, not rejection of His love.
Does this mean that we condone sin? Of course not. However, what this does mean is that instead of vindictively judging others, we are called to love them unconditionally, help them get closer to God through our words and actions toward them, and completely surrender the situation to the Lord.
Application:
In this day and age, it’s easy to judge others. Whether it’s liking or disliking posts or even stereotyping people as they walk past us on the street, we’ve naturally been trained to spot out the shortcomings, inconsistencies, and failures of others while ignoring our own imperfections. When you judge others, Paul says that your judgements and condemnations are deflected off of the person you intended it for and are simply passed back onto you. Today, instead of judging others, choose to love them. Share a smile with a stranger. Talk with someone that you’ve dismissed because of preconceived notions or past interactions. Instead of pointing out what’s wrong, focus on what’s right. Leave judgment up to God. After all, it’s His job, and not yours.
Prayer:
Lord,
You are the only righteous judge. I am sorry, and I repent for the times I have judged others. Create in me a clean heart, and help me to see others, especially those whom I disagree with, through your eyes. Help me to love others like You love me, and when I am tempted to judge them, remind me of the kindness and forgiveness You’ve shown me. I surrender everything to You.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
