24/08/2021
Judging Others
There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you— who are you to judge your neighbor?
—James 4:12
Contrary to what many non-believers think, the Bible doesn’t teach Christians to judge thy neighbor or take on a “holier than thou” attitude. Rather than tearing our neighbors down for their misdeeds and sins, we should focus on our own shortcomings. Just as John 8:7 tells those without sin to cast the first stone on sinners, James 4:12 reminds us that nobody is perfect. Our purpose on Earth isn’t to compete with our neighbors, but to let God be the Almighty Judge. The ultimate source of law is God. All judgment is delegated by Him, not the people of the Earth. While our nation’s laws are necessary to keep the peace, they’re only placeholders for the real thing: the laws of Christ. It isn’t our duty to judge others, as we can’t carry out their “sentence.” There are many verses in the Bible that tell us not to judge others, but this verse is especially poignant because of its powerful verbiage. This verse intentionally uses the words “save” and “destroy” to remind us that the Lord is all-powerful. The contradicting thoughts of annihilation and safety serve as a lesson in God’s omnipotence. No judge on Earth has the power to see into men’s consciences or save or destroy men’s souls (or their lives, for that matter). If we aren’t the one Lawgiver or Judge, why do we waste our time judging others? While it’s human nature to compare yourself to others, try to resist the urge to make judgments. Condemning your fellow people makes you appear like a false god—the last thing the Lord wants from you. Every time you notice yourself judging others, bring to mind one thing about yourself that’s flawed. A little humbleness goes a long way.