James, the half-brother of Jesus wrote a book of life
application. He covers the waterfront, but talks a lot about our words and
thoughts. I was thinking and writing about dealing with difficult people this
week and realized that I was both grumbling and judging, my thoughts were not
great. He speaks about the tongue that can burn down forests, curse and boast.
In James 1:19 he says, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to
speak and slow to become angry.” He has a lot more to say about anger and
humility and particularly judging. “If anyone speaks, he shall do it as one
speaking the very words of God” (James 4:12). Speaking of that Jesus says in Matthew 7:1-2,
“Do
not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others you
will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” The
Apostle Paul tells the Corinthians after saying that he doesn’t worry about
other people judging him because, “It is the Lord who judges me” (1Corinthians
4:3). He tells them and us to just wait for the Lord, for He will expose all
dark thoughts. Well the Lord has some pretty tough words for
me and anyone else who ventures into these attributes. “There are six things that God
hates, seven that are detestable to Him: haughty eyes and a lying tongue…a
false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs dissension among brothers”
(Proverbs 6:16,19). Well this is talking about attitude and not a good
one toward others. God uncovers
everything, and for it we must give an account. “Therefore, let us stop passing
judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling
block or obstacle in your brother’s way” (Romans 14:13). He is speaking
about doctrine, but this applies to all speech.
God wants us to be just, “For the Lord loves the just” (Psalm
37:28). You see, judging is sin, and so is grumbling about others and thinking
bad thoughts. I admit I do it all the time. In fact this morning in my
devotional time I looked up these verses and also made a list of those people I
tend to judge, because I have trouble with them. Now maybe, just maybe, I am
the problem. So what do we do? Start with confession. “For if we confess our sin, He
who is faithful and just will forgive our sins and cleanse us of all
unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Now that is good news. I am also
reminded of the verse that is thought to be the chaplain’s verse or mantra
about what the Lord requires of you. “To do justly, love mercy and walk humbly
with your God” (Micah 6:8 NKJV).
Yes, God has lots of admonitions on how we should act. But
first believe and be filled with the Holy Spirit. Then you will be filled with
the fruit of the Spirit, which is, “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there
is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23).
I also find Colossians 3 instructive. “Therefore as God’s chosen
people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness,
humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever
grievances you may have against one another. And over all these virtues put on
love, which binds them together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule
in your hearts…and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…with
gratitude in your hearts for God” (Colossians 3:12-16).
Not easy teachings, but essential for living godly lives.
Perhaps as a parting thought from John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the
branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart
from me you can do nothing.” Enough said.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.