Avoid Hasty Judgments

Judging others is an attitude that tends to distance us from the Father’s love. In the great Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gave the following warning:

📖 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” (Matthew 7:1)

He then explained why we should not hold a condemning attitude, since we are all imperfect:

📖 “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Matthew 7:2)

It is impossible not to make evaluations in life. Naturally, we form opinions about situations and people. But here Jesus draws our attention to the sin of judging and condemning others without first examining ourselves.

When we judge, we freely point out the faults of others, but conveniently forget our own. In doing so, we walk a dangerous path of hypocrisy and falsehood.

📖 “But if we were more discerning with regard to ourselves, we would not come under such judgment.” (1 Corinthians 11:31)

It is always easier to see the flaws in others than to admit our own imperfections, fears, and failures. Judging others often serves as a way to hide from ourselves the fact that we also have struggles.

Do not judge, if you do not want to be judged

• Having peace with one another is better than being right.

• The judgment of others is prone to deception and is almost always a useless attitude that only consumes time and inner peace.

• The diversity of judgments and opinions tends to cause hostility among families and friends, divisions in churches, and conflicts among brothers and sisters. Therefore, be wise—think carefully before speaking about or to someone.

• Look within yourself and be careful not to judge the actions of others. When we take time to examine ourselves, the result is always positive and fruitful.

• Pray! God knows your heart and the situation you are facing. Ask Him to help you be more humble and balanced, always acting with wisdom.

Prayer: Lord, my God and Father, forgive me for the times I have judged and condemned others. You alone are the righteous Judge who will judge everyone, so I have no such right. Guard my lips and my heart. Help me to look at myself and recognize that I too have flaws and need to grow. Wrong judgments only bring sadness and separation; teach me to be gentle and humble, just like Jesus. Help me keep this word in my heart, so that I may not sin against You or against my neighbor. In Your name I pray with gratitude. Amen. 🙏