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Judging Judy

    Who wants to be in an environment where they feel like they are the only one who has ever sinned? Sometimes that's how churches start to feel. Instead of walking in the grace and mercy Jesus purchased, they walk in judgement and hypocrisy. Many people in the modern church don't admit their faults and look down on those who do. But that kind of "Christianity" never leads people to Jesus.

    We live in the new age that is free from judgement. In the old covenant, there is clearly judgement and anger against the people whenever they sinned. However, Jesus broke that when He came to earth. He implemented the new way-- of grace, mercy, and forgiveness. Our sins are completely washed away and forgiven with the blood of Jesus and now we are seen with favor.

    When we mess up, God doesn't view us poorly. He gives us grace and mercy for our mistakes. The Bible tells us that won't always be the case. When Jesus comes back to earth, He will come to judge us based on our hearts. But if even Jesus isn't judging people now, what gives us the right? We think that it's okay to look down on others for their decisions and to tell them they're wrong. It's crazy talk. No one wants to be given unsolicited advice, nor do they want to hear they are living their whole life wrong. That never leads anyone to Jesus. 

    Take advantage of this season of favor and come to God for your forgiveness. Likewise, grant others the forgiveness and understanding they need. When you greet others with understanding love, grace, kindness, and mercy they know it. People can sense those things. Make sure that you are walking in mercy today, always leaving the door open for someone to meet Jesus.

James 2:13 For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. (ESV)

Romans 14:12-13 So then each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. (ESV)

Matthew 7:1-5 “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye." (ESV)

1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive his commendation from God. (ESV)

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