Matthew 7:1-2 “Do not judge, or you will be judged. For with the same judgment you pronounce, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
One of the hardest things to do is to renounce our tendency to judge. This is about criticizing or condemning someone who does something “wrong” like “butt in” front of you, saying arrogant things, or getting in your way.
In these cases where we are hardly really harmed, why do we get so upset and respond by withholding love or worse? In a word, we are offended because we are dishonored; our judgmental reaction stems from our need to be valued and honored.
How is faith in God is the antidote? That we believe that we are beloved of God. “And that is what we are!” said John in his first letter. If beloved, do we really need to point out when someone has belittled us? Once you are firm in your faith that you are totally accepted and approved by God, you will not be shaken by someone who has offended you by their words or actions.
This faith sets you free from correcting the error of someone who has unjustly offended you. It allows you to respond in love. When you seek the Lord for how you should respond, look for a loving response is one that doesn’t notice the wrong. At all times you love.
Prayer: Father, help me believe the truth that I am your beloved, honored, and cherished in your sight. Heal any wound in me that has caused me to resist this truth and forgive me for not embracing it and for my lack of faith. I forgive any who have wounded me in my past that made me feel unloved, dishonored, or unworthy.
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