Disciples Learn to Judge (Under Jesus) with a Right Measure
Matthew 7:1-2
Jesus taught: 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.
We see Jesus clearly saying "do not judge", which is been quoted by many people in the face of perceived criticism. This is a good place to acknowledge that Jesus also tells us – in another place – "stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly" (John 7:24).
Jesus is not advocating a zero-judgment policy, so what does He mean? Think of it this way. Have you ever had somebody say to you “don't judge me!” after you compliment them? Not likely. Though it may happen, it will be rare.
Most people say “don't judge me” in light of criticism. We want to be very careful with our criticisms and judgments. Follow God and His lead here.
God clearly has the right to judge us, but that's not His goal. So even if you have the right to judge, that should never be your goal. Your goal should align with God’s goal, which we cover tomorrow – reconciliation
Prayer Prompt
Father God, teach me to judge well – not by mere appearances – but by Your Holy Spirit, the One who in Christ sets me and all people free from the law of sin and death. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Immersed in the Word of God
Micro-Meditation Scripture
Psalm 1:1-6
- Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers, - but whose delight is in the law of the LORD,
and who meditates on his law day and night. - That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers. - Not so the wicked! They are like chaff
that the wind blows away. - Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. - For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.
Micro-Meditation Action
Read the verses of the Psalm two times. Focus on what you see differently on the second reading.
Mark any words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: Talk (or write in a journal) with God about the words that catch your attention. Ask Him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect a response.
Micro-Meditation Pondering Point
What does walking with the wicked bring to mind for you? What about standing with sinners? Sitting with mockers? How might God convict you here?