Judgment

Since February DH and I have been doing bible study lessons, (off and on but mostly on), in our home with our minister and one of our elders. We started with twice weekly and now are meeting once a week. They have both been so great to help us learn more about God's word.

We work the lesson through the week, then discuss it when they come. We each have a copy of the lesson and work them separately, then discuss anything we have questions about. It is such a good way to read, study and learn God's word and nice to have the opportunity to ask and clarify anything we do not understand in a one on one setting.

This week, our lesson was on judgement. This one really made an impact on me. I think sometimes we are all too quick to judge others and reading through the scriptures on this topic was very enlightening.

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.  If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.  Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay, ” says the Lord.
-Romans 12:17-19 (NIV84)

You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat.  It is written:“ ‘As surely as I live, ’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me;every tongue will confess to God.’ ” So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.
-Romans 14:10-12 (NIV84)
Knowing that JESUS is the only one to judge men really makes you think when you form opinions of others. When I judge others, I am sinning by doing so, because only HE is the judge of ALL. This realization is scary and brings thoughts of more patience and tolerance of all others - be it family, friends, neighbors, church members or complete strangers. We, being human, tend to hold grudges against those who hurt us or that we think hurt us. Sometimes misunderstandings or miscommunication can lead to years of painful memories and separation that are unnecessary.

You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.  Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth.
-Romans 2:1-2 (NIV84)

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
-Colossians 3:13 (NIV84)

And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.
-Mark 11:25 (NIV84)

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you,  leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.
-Matthew 5:23-24 (NIV84)

Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son,
-John 5:22 (NIV84)

My Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for all the blessings you have given me and my family. Thank you for helping us throughout the difficult times and being with us for happier and peaceful ones. 

Thank you for the healing of our bodies and our souls.  May You continue to do wonderful work in our lives and in the lives of others around the world. Father, as only you can do, give the leaders of our country knowledge and guidance to do what is in the best interests of all it's citizens. 

In Jesus Name, I pray.
Amen.