A neat analogy was shared during a conversation yesterday as part of a dialog on judgement. How, in looking at how people live or behave or their choices and offering any comment about those things, it's judgement. The analogy was that our lives and other people's lives are like icebergs. Only a fraction of what we see is above the water, the rest is hidden from sight. Who are we to judge based on the one third that we see?
I struggle with judgement all the time. It's a slippery devil.
Although, when someone commented when Christians pray for strangers (the example was a turbaned man), we are judging them because they aren't Christians. Hmmm, I've had to think about that a bit. It sort of rocked my world and required clarifying my concept of what we, as Christians, are called to do.
Thank You, Lord, for showing me that those prayers are love offerings. Care must be taken that it isn't because we condemn another's life but truly and simply want them to know our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Then judgement isn't part of the picture anymore.
I frequently hear of damage and hurt and pain caused by Christians. It breaks my heart just how cruel we can be when the Bible is used as a weapon of judgement instead of a "How To" guide to life.
Judgement is easier than looking in the mirror. A path of grace, compassion, forgiveness, and love is hard. It isn't meant to be easy otherwise we could do it all by ourselves and would have no need for Jesus in our life.
I pray that the bottom two thirds of my iceberg contains more of Christ.
"And Jesus, answering them, began to say, "Take heed that no one deceives you."" Mk 13:5
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Boundary Study Part 2
"Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God--truly righteous and holy...
Perhaps the Christians who are so quick to judge haven't spent enough time examining the sin that resides within themselves. That is a humbling exercise, and one that helps us to see others in a more compassionate light. When we know ourselves honestly, we have a better ability to see others from God's perspective.
ReplyDeleteWe are told in Scripture to make judgments. We can judge people's actions, but not motives. We are also to discern. Unfortunately there is little discernment in much of the judgment we do as Christians. We need the Holy Spirit for guidance. Remember - to disagree or disapprove is not hatred or bigotry. We are to be light in the darkness, not hide in it so we don't make any waves. It is indeed a slippery slope, and we will be held accountable.
ReplyDeleteBoth of you have valid points.
ReplyDeleteOh, Lord, help us be discerning! Help us set aside our own prejudices and presumptions. In Jesus' Name I pray!