WHO AM I TO JUDGE

ROMANS 14:4 NKJ 
Who are you to judge another’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand. 

I have used this verse for years as a reminder that I am not the judge and that I am not the master.   

This may be one of the easiest things to slip into as a believer.  We look at others and judge them by their actions while we usually give ourselves and loved ones a break.   

The kid down the street is just plain mean, but my child is only mischievous.  I cannot believe they would do something that stupid, but my stupid acts are just ‘slip ups.’   

As a pastor, I must stay really careful when it comes to other pastors and what they do.  I often go back to this verse.  I have told people who have come to me with stories of other preachers and their mistakes that those preachers are not my servants.  They belong to the Lord.  He is their Master, not me, and He can enable them to make it.  I wish I could tell you that most people see that truth and respond appropriately.  But most seem disappointed that I don't share in their gossipy story.  Oh well, I can't judge their hearts either.  They are not my servants.   

APPLICATION 

If we have authority in a family or situation, then we'll have to deal with infractions and errors.  But if people are not reporting to us, the best thing we can do is recognize they are not our servants and don't judge.  There is so much we don't know.   

PRAYER 

Dear Father, You are the only One who can truly judge the right way.  I'll leave Your servants and judgment up to You.