"Exercise Justice" in Walking With God - Conclusion off How We Treat Others

Why must we "stop judging" others?  For one thing, our authority is limited.  The disciple James reminds us: "One there is that is lawgiver and judge"-Jehovah.  So James pointedly asks: "Who are you to be judging your neighbor?"  (James 4:12; Romans 14:1-4)  In addition, our sinful nature can so easily render our judgments unfair.  Many attitudes and motives-including prejudices-can distort the way we see fellow humans.  We have further limitations, and reflecting on these should restrain us from being quick to find fault with others.  We cannot read hearts; nor can we know all the personal circumstances of others .  Who, then, are we to impute wrong motives to fellow believers or to criticize their efforts in God's service?  How much better it is to imitate Jehovah by looking for the good in our brothers and sisters rather than focusing on their failings! 

What about our family members?  Sadly, in today's world some of the harshest judgments  are handed down in what should be a haven of peace-the home.  It is not uncommon to hear about abusive husbands, wives, or parents who "sentence" their family members to a constant barrage of verbal or physical abuse.  But vicious words, bitter sarcasm, and abusive treatment have no place among God's worshipers.  (Ephesians 4:29, 31; 5:33;6:4) Jesus' counsel to "stop judging" and "stop condemning" does not cease to apply when we are at home. Recall that exercising justice involves treating others the way Jehovah treats us. And our God is never harsh or cruel in dealing with us. Rather, he "is very tender in affection" toward those who love him.  (James 6:5-11) What a marvelous example for us to imitate!

Next time: "Exercise Justice" in Walking With God - Elders Serving "for Justice Itself" 

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah