“For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with what measure you measure, it will be measured to you.”
Matthew 7:2, LSB
It is easy to look at other's mistakes, failures, and shortcomings and feel better about yourself. This is human nature. We like to judge others, yet we don’t like feeling judged. Jesus is warning that the same level we use to judge another will be the level to which we will be judged. It’s not a calling to not be aware or ignore the shortcomings of another, but we must realize the standard we utilize. Our calling is to help others to come to know our Lord and His forgiveness. No one cares for the disapproving looks or the wagging of a finger or head. Most are often aware of failure, particularly their own, especially if they are discerning and have a desire to do and be better. It doesn’t help to excuse the error either. When we come alongside another with an awareness of our own shortcomings, we can humbly offer help, not with judgment, but with a kind word of encouragement. Encouragement does not gloss over the error but is an offering of help or redirection. The goal is not to unsettle, but to give a sense of grace and a path to knowing Christ’s peace.
Let us pray. I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have kept me this night from all harm and danger, and I ask you to protect me this day also from sin and every evil, that in all I do today, I may please you. For into your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all that is mine. Let your holy angel watch over me, that the wicked foe have no power over me. Amen.