The Bible has many passages that warn us against over-indulging in judgement of others. It also reminds us that no one is perfect and that it is not for us to judge, as it is not our place to do so.
Judging others is a natural part of how we interact with the world. We often judge others based on their words, actions, or even their looks. As Christians, we must be mindful of our judgements and be sure that they are based on truth and righteousness. We must remember that God has equipped us with His Holy Spirit to guide us in knowing what is right and just. The Bible instructs us not to judge others, but to love them instead. We are called to “love one another as [we] love ourself.”
Jesus specifically cautioned his followers against passing judgement on others. He reminded them that judgement is reserved for God alone, and that it is wrong for any human to try and act as God in determining the fate of another person. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warned, “Judge not, that you be not judged.” He even went so far as to say that anyone who passes judgement is no better than those they are passing judgement upon.
The Bible also reminds us that any judgement should be based on facts and not on our own biases or prejudices. In Matthew 7:1-2, Jesus cautioned us to judge others “with righteous judgement”, which means that one’s judgement should always be fair, just, and based on truth. We are instructed to look deeply within ourselves and consider our own shortcomings, rather than pointing out the flaws and shortcomings in others. Matthew 7:3 tells us to, “Judge not, that ye be not judged.”
When it comes to judging others, we must remember that, even though we may be in a position of authority or power, it is not our place to judge. We must remember that judgement is reserved for God and that, even as Christians, we are meant to show grace and love to our neighbors as ourselves. That is why we must remember to love our neighbors and show mercy, even when it is hard, rather than trying to judge them for their mistakes.
It is also important for us to understand that the Bible is full of stories that remind us that God is the ultimate judge. We may make decisions that seem right to us, but God alone has the power to judge which decisions are right and wrong. The Bible reminds us that He is patient and merciful, and that He will one day judge us based on our alignment with His laws and commands.
Love your Neighbour
The Bible consistently teaches us to love our neighbour. Jesus proclaimed, “Love your neighbour as yourself.” God is calling us to be loving and kind to others, regardless of their past mistakes or the differences that may exist between us. We are called to be an example of God’s love in the world and to treat others with the same kindness and respect that we wish to be treated with. We must remember to show mercy and extend a helping hand to those who may be struggling.
God is also calling us to forgive those who have sinned against us and to let go of judgement. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus teaches us that “if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your sins.” This is a reminder that the only way to experience true freedom and peace is to forgive and let go of judgement and bitterness. By forgiving those who have wronged us, we can enjoy a closer relationship with God and be liberated from the chains of judgement.
We are also called to be light-bearers and to share God’s message of love and forgiveness with the world. The Bible tells us to “let your light shine before others”, so they can see our good deeds and glorify our Father who is in heaven. When we show God’s love to others, through our grace and mercy, we are shining brightly and pointing others in the direction of the love that God has for us.
Steer clear of gossip
The Bible also warns us about gossiping or speaking ill of others. We are to avoid gossiping and instead show kindness, mercy and grace—even when we may not agree or approve of someone or something. In Proverbs 11:13, we are warned that “a gossip’s tongue brings trouble to others.” Let us remember that our words have power, and be mindful to not spread negative words and gossip. This can save us from unnecessary conflict and help us to focus on more positive things.
In addition, we must make sure that our judgements are based on facts and not assumptions. Quoting Proverbs 19:2, “Do not be hasty in your judgement.” We must be aware of the power of assumptions and strive to make sure our judgements are fair and based on truth. We invite the Holy Spirit of God to lead us in our decisions.
Finally, Romans 2:1-2 reminds us to “not be arrogant [or] pass judgement on others.” We must remember that we are all accountable to God, so it is not our place to judge others. Instead, God is asking us to love others and show them grace and mercy, just as God has shown us.
Stay mindful
In conclusion, the Bible is clear in its message of avoiding excessive judgement of others and instead extending grace and forgiveness. Let us strive to always stay mindful of the power of judgment and seek to show God’s love to others. In this way, we can be a positive influence in the world and demonstrate to others that we are not in control of our fate, but that God alone is the judge.
Show humility
The Bible also reminds us to show humility and to not over-exalt ourselves. In Proverbs 16:18, it states, “Pride goes before destruction and an arrogant spirit before a fall.” We must remember to have humility in our judgements and to be aware of our own flaws and shortcomings so that we may show grace to others.
We are also told in Proverbs 19:11 to “discretion is the better part of valour.” In other words, it is better to exercise wisdom and prudence when making decisions, rather than proudly boasting of our own judgements. We must remember to be humble in our actions, words and judgements.
The Bible tells us many times to show humility in the face of judgement. We must be aware of our own limitations and strive to extend love and grace to others. We do not have the right to judge others, but we do have the obligation to love one another. We should guard our thoughts and words against judgement and strive to be examples of love, grace and mercy in the face of judgement.
Practise Forgiveness
According to the Bible, it is essential to practice forgiveness in order to overcome judgement. Jesus commanded us to, “Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, and do good to those who hate you.” We must remember that God has granted us undeserved mercy and forgiveness, and that it is important to extend this same mercy and forgiveness to others.
The Bible also instructs us to forgive even the most atrocious of sins. In Matthew 18:22-23 Jesus said, “If any man sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times turns again to you and says, I repent, you should forgive him.” This parable reminds us of God’s vast mercy, and that we are called to extend this same mercy to our neighbours.
It is important to remember that judgement should always be led by mercy and forgiveness. We should try to be understanding and forgiving when judging the actions of others, and strive to show mercy and grace, no matter what the situation. This is the best way to honour God and to fulfill His commands to love one another.
Seek Wisdom
The Bible teaches us to seek wisdom when making judgements. Proverbs 2:6-7 tells us, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” This is a reminder that wisdom is a gift from God and that it is important to seek His wisdom when we are making judgements.
We must also remember to listen to sound advice when making decisions. In Proverbs 12:15, we are reminded that “a wise man will heed advice.” We must strive to consider wise counsel and make sure that our decisions are aligned with the Word of God.
Finally, the Bible reminds us to be prayerful when making judgement. Proverbs 3:5-6 tell us “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” We must humble ourselves before God and seek His wisdom in all of our judgements.
