How Quickly We Judge

“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” Galatians 6:1

Folks, particularly the media, have been getting a lot of exercise lately–they have been “jumping” to conclusions before they even attempt to examine the facts.  It is so easy to judge others (Matthew 7:1).  I know why the liberal media does it, but why do we tend to set ourselves up as judge and jury?  I think one of the main reasons we pass judgment on others is to make us feel better about ourselves.  I think reality television shows that pit people against one another, particularly ones like the old Jerry Springer show, are so popular because those who watch the mayhem that goes on between the contestants can feel better about themselves.  The thought that likely goes through the minds of the viewers is, “at least I’m not like those goofballs!”

We pass judgment on folks when we have no idea what they are going through.  As Christians, we should step out and lend a hand to help our brother or sister and not to push him or her further into the abyss of despair.  The faults of others come into plain view in our eyes, yet our own faults are barely recognizable to us.  On the other hand, what we fail to see in ourselves is fairly evident to others.

When we criticize rather than help to restore another who has made a mistake, we need to remember that the “shoe could be on the other foot”.  No one is immune to making mistakes.  To restore in the spirit of meekness is not to be weak and condone another’s sin, but to have strength under control in order to make a proper assessment of the situation and do what you can to help him or her to see that he or she can be forgiven.  If folks would just follow the “Golden Rule” and treat others with the kindness and respect that most folks desire from others, this world would be a better place.  I am really appalled when I see how people are treating fellow human beings and at all the nasty, hurtful comments that folks are spreading via the internet.  I think Satan is getting a good laugh over all the turmoil.  Many folks are playing right into his hands.

I plan to continue to fight the good fight by striving to be a forgiving and kind person, maintaining my integrity and being a loyal private in God’s army.  I might not be able to do much to swing the tide back to a godly nation, but I am not “throwing in the towel”.  All God asks us to do is to be faithful.  That’s certainly not asking too much.