Does it really say, "Don't Judge?"
Matthew 7:1-5
7 “Don’t judge, so that you won’t be judged.2 For the way you judge others is how you will be judged — the measure with which you measure out will be used to measure to you.3 Why do you see the splinter in your brother’s eye but not notice the log in your own eye?4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the splinter out of your eye,’ when you have the log in your own eye?5 You hypocrite! First, take the log out of your own eye; then you will see clearly, so that you can remove the splinter from your brother’s eye!
Often times these verses become the said authority that we are not to "judge one another." It doesn't say that we can't judge, or should not judge, it simply says that if we judge, than we need to be ready to be judged ourselves. If we are going to criticize, or point out wrongs in someone else, we need to receive criticism ourselves. It is vital that we examine ourselves first!
The concept we miss when we say, "don't judge," is the idea of accountability. We end up becoming so afraid of telling someone they are wrong, because we are told we are "judging" them, that we allow them to proceed in situations that are not godly and right! It is our responsibility to hold each other accountable and work with each other in LOVE so that we are all moving towards HIS heart.
I do believe there is a difference between "judging" and "holding someone accountable." And yes, judging is probably not the route to go. Judging does tend to be more firm and final, usually not filled with love. We also need to make sure that whenever we work with someone to help them, that we are ready to move the "log from our own eye" if necessary.
This is all part of community. It is all part of learning and growing towards what our Father desires. Let's do this filled with the LOVE of God and share that LOVE with others. Not always easy to do, but it is what HE requires...
Love and blessings,
Rose
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