Years ago, I had jury duty and the judge stressed the importance of keeping an open mind. He said we'd hear evidence from a number of sources, and we needed to hear all the evidence before forming an opinion.
This is a biblical principle, repeated throughout Scripture, applying to everyone and everything we judge.
Deuteronomy 19:15 – “You must not convict anyone of a crime on the testimony of only one witness. The facts of the case must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”
Proverbs 18:17 – “In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines.”
Proverbs 18:13 – “Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.”
1 Timothy 5:19 – “Do not listen to an accusation against an elder unless it is confirmed by two or three witnesses.”
And it's so important that when we judge things, we judge them using the principles in God's Word:
"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12).
If you own Wisdom for Life, I encourage you to read or reread Day 50 which talks about the untrustworthy language sometimes used in judging people.
If you haven't purchased Wisdom for Life, check out the sales on Lifeway, Amazon, and CBD.
Bible Love Notes
Amen! I have no clue why 'Christians' put effort in accusing other Christians, they are doing the work of the devil (who is the accuser of the brethren).
ReplyDeleteMERRY CHRISTMAS to you and wishing you a fabulous blogging year!
Right on, Marja! Nothing else needs to be said. The Lord told us that He would send the Holy Spirit to be with us forever, and He would instruct, convict, comfort, whatever we needed.He speak through sermons, teachings, conversations with other Christians who probably have no idea we needed to hear their words. Isaiah 11:1-4a says it best. Only through the Holy Spirit and His gifts can we speak into any situation.
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