There is a lot of misunderstanding when it comes to the subject of judging others.  Most people who have a small amount of Bible knowledge think that it is always wrong to judge others.  Usually, if one tries to correct someone with such little knowledge of God’s Word, they will say something like, “doesn’t the Bible say not to judge others?”  They do not realize that the same Bible that says not to judge, also commands us to judge

John 7:24 (ESV)
²⁴  Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.”

There is a right and wrong way to judge.  To judge according to appearances is to listen to hearsay, giving in to gossip instead of forming an opinion based on facts.  Righteous judgment is not only based on the facts but judgment that is formed by the right standard, that is, God’s Word.

One thing we should all want to avoid is becoming judgmental.  That has to do with a condition of the heart rather than a single action, and it is a condition that will lead to our condemnation.

To be judgmental is to constantly pass moral judgments on others, even when it is not necessary to do so.  Every action that is taken by others, or at least most of them, becomes an opportunity to be critical of the one who is judgmental.  Does that describe you?  Do you find yourself constantly judging the actions of those around you, and doing so with a critical eye?  If so, you may have developed this dangerous heart condition.

Here are some signs that you might be judgmental?

• You think you are always right.
• You get angry when things aren’t done the way you want them to be.
• You have a hard time forgiving others.
• You tend to think the worse of people.
• You often draw negative conclusions quickly.
• You have become very suspicious of others.
• You often conclude others are lying without evidence.
• You are characterized by pessimism.

One way to avoid being overly judgmental is to examine your own life regularly and honestly.  When you spend time worrying about your own shortcomings, you usually do not have time to obsess about the deeds of others.  I am not saying we shouldn’t think about others because the Bible says we should think of others before ourselves (Philippians 2:3-4).  I am saying, however, that we should avoid being critical of others all the time.  We all have enough flaws ourselves that need fixing.

The best way to avoid being judgmental is to love others.  Instead of being critical, love gives others the benefit of the doubt (1 Corinthians 13:7).  Let’s all try to be less critical of others, and more loving.

As you wind down for the night, think about these things.