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Judging Wisely
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.''(NIV)
 What is Jesus saying here; that we shouldn't weigh up people's actions? Is he saying that we should live without discernment, never questioning anyone's motives, or correcting anyone's wrong behaviour? No, but he is saying that we should never judge beyond our sphere of responsibility, and we must not judge in a way that condemns people. It is right for us to judge what is entrusted to us, but not to make judgments outside of our sphere of influence -– that brings judgment upon our own lives. It is appropriate, for example, for pastors to protectively discern the motivations of people who try to influence the people of God who are in their care. Similarly, it is healthy for parents to judge the intentions of those who are around their children. This is their duty and if they neglect it, the innocent will suffer. Yet even when we're judging what is within our sphere of influence and accountability, our judgment should be carried out in the spirit of Calvary. We should speak the truth in love, without a controlling attitude, and with a commitment to discipline and restoration. We should always live in the fear of God, knowing that we too will ultimately answer to him.
Prayer: 'Lord Jesus, help me to exercise good judgment in my life, protecting watch you have placed within my care. Help me, too, not to judge situations or people about our outside of my sphere of responsibility. And where I do need to make wise judgments, help me to do so in love.'
© 2003-2004 Mal Fletcher
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