Leave It To The Only Judge

Romans 2:1-3 Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God?

Here is a sad truth for us to ponder. The accusation the Apostle Paul makes here is common in the world of the unsaved; people being judgmental and critical toward others for their sinful behavior, when they too practice the same. What is also sad is that this is also true of many who profess being followers of Jesus. We are judgmental and critical of others, and use the stumblings of our brethren as opportunities to make ourselves feel better about our own sinfulness. Oh, and did I mention that we also use these moments as opportunities to feast on tender morsels of gossip that we gladly share with others? For the unsaved, the tragic truth is that they are on the path to God's judgment, eternal separation from God, and eternal punishment in Hell and the Lake of Fire. The only remedy and escape from God's wrath is salvation that is found only in Christ, by God's grace. For you and me, there is no condemnation for us in Jesus, but there will be loss of heavenly reward. What is our remedy? It is repentance, getting right with the Lord and our brethren. Confess our own sinfulness, and rather than be judgmental toward other believers, first remove the plank sticking out of our own eye, before trying to remove the splinter from our brother's eye. Instead of being self-righteous and critical, we can practice what we are told in Galatians 6 and take inventory of ourselves, and in humility go and restore those who stumble. How do we honor the Lord by being judgmental toward others, when the only difference between them and us is that our "pet" sin is different than theirs? Let us encourage and do what we can to restore one another, and leave the judging to the only Judge, Jesus our Lord and King; for a time is coming soon when we all must give an account.

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Romans 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Romans 10:13).