Following and Trusting : Encountering God Out of the Box

When I see people who say they love Jesus and yet ‘call out’ people for their errors such as ‘misguided beliefs’, I see that they truly don’t understand the cross.

I see this all the time.

I have fallen into this error myself at times.
When I do, I need to pause and pray.

Our hearts long for justice but we unwisely put ourselves in the place of judge and then bring judgement on ourselves.

Yet, we ourselves cry out for mercy.

Did you know that the muck we find ourselves trudging through could be a result of how we have measured others?

In our journey of faith, we may encounter moments where our reality doesn’t align with the promises we’ve received from God’s Word.

When faced with such challenges, it’s vital to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to reveal the underlying causes of our struggles. We could have done this to ourselves by what we have poured out on others. As believers, we’re called to examine our past actions and discern if we’ve sown seeds of negativity or judgment that are now yielding a harvest of difficulties (Galatians 6:7).

Reflecting on our interactions with others, especially within our families, we may uncover instances where judgment has taken root, leading to strained relationships or unresolved conflicts. Even if we can’t recall specific moments of judgment, it’s crucial to seek forgiveness and release any lingering resentment (Matthew 7:1-2).

Forgiveness isn’t about condoning someone’s behavior but surrendering them to God, trusting in His grace and justice (Hebrews 12:15). As we seek to extend forgiveness, we free ourselves from the burden of judgment and open the door to healing and restoration. (See chapter 13 on forgiveness in God, Show Me More of You as it’s a tender road to walk.)

In our discernment of right and wrong, let’s be alert not to pass judgment on others (Deuteronomy 5:16). Instead, let’s cultivate a spirit of compassion and empathy, recognizing that we too are recipients of God’s grace (Luke 6:37-38).

Rather than condemning others, let’s focus on reflecting God’s grace and mercy, knowing that we, too, stand in need of His forgiveness (Romans 2:1). Ultimately, we trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty, acknowledging His authority to judge and redeem (Isaiah 45:11).

Living on the other side of the cross means understanding the full extent of God’s love and forgiveness. Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we have been reconciled to God and given the gift of eternal life. As recipients of this incredible grace, we are called to reflect the same love and mercy to others, regardless of their past mistakes or shortcomings.

This does not mean that we turn a blind eye to sin or wrongdoing. Rather, it means that we prayerfully approach others with humility and empathy, recognizing that we are all sinners in need of God’s grace. Instead of passing judgment, we are called to pray, offer a listening ear, a helping hand, and a word of encouragement, knowing that it is through love and compassion that hearts are changed and lives are transformed.

As we navigate our relationships and interactions with others, let us remember the words of Jesus: “Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven” (Luke 6:37, ESV). By embracing grace and letting God be the judge, we can partner with Him to create a world filled with His love, mercy, and compassion—a reflection of the kingdom of God here on earth.

Reflect:

Pause and Pray.
Ask Holy Spirit if you have unwisely judged anyone?

“Search me, O God, and know my heart;
    test me and know my anxious thoughts.
 Point out anything in me that offends you,
    and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”
(Psalm 139:23, 24 NLT)

Notice what comes to mind.
Be open to the Holy Spirit leading you.

Sample Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

I come to you in Jesus’ name, asking for forgiveness for judging others. I realize that I am not a righteous judge, and I have no right to condemn anyone. Jesus, who was without sin, did not judge others but entrusted Himself to You, the righteous judge.

Please forgive me for judging and condemning others. I choose to bless those whom I have judged and accused, even those who have hurt me. By your cross, I break the power of sowing and reaping in my life.

Instead, I choose to sow blessings into my life by blessing those who have wronged me. I ask You to bless them and provide for their needs.

Thank you, Lord, for forgiving me and helping me to forgive others.

Amen.

Dig Deeper:

Watch for the upcoming book, God, Show Me What You See for more stories, and powerful help on the power of our words and prayers.

Need some help walking through the muck?
Reach out to one of us: www.coachinginfreedom.com