Reflection
“Do not judge” is not an invitation to inaction. often our judgments can fall short either because we see only the external or because we lack objectivity. We live in a society where compassion and collaboration is often categorized as weakness. Judgments are freely publicized often without a basis in fact. Rigid positions are held without any apparent concern for the good of others. To compromise on a solution is seen as “backing down”. Attitudes like that whether religious or political do not reflect a true Christian spirit. Who of us can totally understand the heart of another? There are instances when we must make a judgment, but, no matter what the provocation, it is important to let our compassion and common sense keep us in balance.
Prayer
May I be compassionate and judge rightly.
Action
Where do I see rigid judgments hurting people? Is there a place in my life where harsh judgment has broken a relationship or supported a biased view? How can I heal this problem?
Suggested Reading
Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.
Luke 6:36-38
Who am I to judge?
Pope Francis
When you look for the best in others, you bring out the best in yourself.
Betsy Boggs
No accurate thinker will judge another person by that which the other person’s enemies say about him.
Napoleon Hill
You know, there’s a lot of talk in this country about the federal deficit. But I think we should talk more about our empathy deficit — the ability to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes; to see the world through the eyes of those who are different from us.
Barack Obama
When you say that a situation or a person is hopeless, you are slamming the door in the face of God.
Charles L. Allen
The trouble with most Christians today is that they would rather be on the judgment seat than on the witness stand.
Anonymous
Judging is preventing us from understanding a new truth. Free yourself from the rules of old judgments and create the space for new understanding.
Steve Maraboli