Do Not Judge From Afar!
John 7
KJV
24+ Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.
I happened to meet a sister one cloudy afternoon and gave her a lift in my car, during the course of the driving she asked me several questions which I answered.
In keeping with my nature I answered and said things that made her laugh a lot, something that contradicted and surprised her!
When I dropped her at her destination she posted a message, the content of which is what influenced what you are about to read! Judging from afar!
It is sad to say that basic rudiments of the Christian Faith have not been taught to many as a result the church has become like a political party.
Political party in the sense that many have believed and followed blindly! Labels, tags etc have been used to divide the church based on people’s likes and dislikes.
Making things worse and contributing to this sad development is the human desire to be seen and recognised as “somebody”!
Many have been brainwashed into believing that certain people are against them so wherever they see them they must fight them! Yes!
Read a practical experience, one day chanced upon a sister we had a lengthy jovial chat, laughed and parted ways as normal people!
The sister later texted to say thank you! I was wondering why thank me? Then she followed with another message stating,” she never knew that I do laugh and joke”
When I inquired why? She said she was told by some about who and what I am which made her not to get closer to me over the years that she has known me! Yes.
She went on to say there have been many negative things said about me to her and because of the position and office those who spoke to her hold in the church she believed what they said to be true
Until she met me face to face and heard and saw me in my natural state, she always believed what was said about me.
Yes, so don’t judge anyone from afar! Get closer to know, learn and form your own judgement and opinions! This is what is called “ righteous judgement “
A “righteous judgement” is a judgement based on facts, eye witness evidence, personal experiences and encounters. Not hearsay, gossip, rumours mostly influenced/driven by personal ambitions and personality clashes!
Many are suffering unjustly because of the negative limelight that they’ve been placed in. Contributing to the spread of this unfortunate phenomenon is the lack of spirituality among many.
Thank you sister for this confession which has enabled me to share my thoughts on the unfortunate state of our fellowship!
Do not believe everything you are told about someone, get closer to the person and get a firsthand feel! This is what is called a “ righteous judgment “. Fair assessment based on what you saw, heard and felt.
A word to the wise!