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. (Matt. 7:1-2)
Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. (Luke 6:36)
Lord Jesus, just when I was starting to feel pretty self-righteous about not being self-righteous, my inner “judge-jury-executioner” woke up. On a scale of 1 to 10, my irritability factor went from docile 3 to a snarky 8. The drama (politics) of seating a new Supreme Court Justice in America has become a vehicle of showing me how much I need your grace, and at times, how little I trust your sovereignty.
Once again, I’ve slipped (jumped) into being a self-appointed Olympic judge, with scorecard in hand. Responding appropriately to disturbing and disappointing circumstances is one thing; reacting with unfiltered aggravation is quite another.
God, have mercy on me, the sinner. I really mean that. Jesus, you exhausted God’s judgment against all my sins upon the cross—the 4% I am aware of, and the other 96% as well. To you all people answer, not to me. Humility is the order of this and every day.
We’re to love others as you love us, Jesus, not judge others with the judgment entrusted to you alone. You’re not only the ruler of the kings of the earth (Rev. 1:5), but of every other seat of authority as well. “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?” (Gen. 18:25).
Soften my heart today, Holy Spirit. Gentle my spirit with your love, heavenly Father. Tenderize my reactions with your grace, Lord Jesus.
May the truth of the gospel clarify my perspective, the hope of heaven shape my attitude, and the mercy of God determine my words. You’re not calling us to be passively indifferent; but you are calling us to be actively trusting. So very Amen I pray, in your great and gracious name.
