1 Corinthians 4:5  – “Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in darkness and make manifest the motives of hearts.”

As I read, prayed, and mused on the Word of God today, a reality troubled me.   Judgmentalism’s ugly head loomed before my eyes.  Its constant companion, self-righteousness, stood by its side, sneering.   It was a deeply troubling visual.

As I pondered what I was seeing and sensing, Psalm 127:1 caught my attention.  “Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it.  Unless the LORD watches the city.  The watchman keeps awake in vain.”    

Self-appointed guardians of truth often succumb to Judgmentalism and exhibit self-righteousness toward those who are hurt and toward the Body of Christ.  Psalm 133:1 is germane.   Judgmentalism is a sign of spiritual immaturity.  (1 Corinthians 3).

1 Corinthians 4:5 is a succulent warning and guide.  The Holy Spirit spoke to my heart – “Rather than you trying to be the guardian of truth, teach truth.  Rather than trying to expose every error, teach truth.  In love, contrast error to truth without including personalities.  Follow biblical principles in all things and pray for everyone.”

Matthew 18 must be followed.   If I have not gone to the person I am judging as errant, I am in violation of scripture.  I do not know the hearts of others, so I commit them to God, pray for them, and proclaim what I believe to be Truth.  We do not justify sin.  We do not ignore violations of biblical truth.  But, if we become sectarian (1 Corinthians 3), we hinder the witness of Christ and limit the benefit to the Body of Christ.

Here is a thought to consider.  Our objective is oneness with Jesus through the Holy Spirit.  Our purpose is the mission and commission of the gospel.  We are to be the servant or slave of Jesus only.  1 Corinthians 7:23 – “You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men.”   If we focus on the errors of others, we become slaves to them.  Our focus on their error hinders our seeing God’s truth in ever-expanding ways.  What we focus on becomes our master.

Let’s focus on Jesus, truth, love, and the kingdom, and leave the judgment to Him.  It is possible we could be wrong in our judgment or only partially right.  We divide the body and hinder the world.  So, let’s give them Jesus!

My cry today is LORD, help me to see my flaws, and in light of Your mercy, be merciful.

May the Peace of God rule your hearts today!