THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Lord, you witnessed this ugly human trait firsthand when you walked among us. Did this trigger your righteous anger? Were you disgusted, yet not surprised? Judging a person based on their looks and appearance is common when people strive for a higher position in the pecking order in their world. Christ followers are not to be like this. Viewing others as inferior because of economic, educational, or ethnic differences is unacceptable for a believer.

Lord, didn’t you teach us to “love our neighbor as ourselves?” (Matthew 22:39). And doesn’t your Word say we should treat others as we want to be treated? (Matthew 7:12). A judgmental attitude should have no place within the church. Sadly, it does. This sinful attitude—unrighteous judgment, i.e., prejudice, bigotry, racism—whether big or small, is a fierce enemy among believers. Jesus, this is another sin that nailed you to the cross.

Your earthly half- brother James addressed this issue. No longer would distinctions be made according to social standing. No longer would the best seats in the synagogue be reserved for the well-to-do. No longer would the less well-doers be required to stand in the background or sit on the floor (James 2).

Because you created us in your image, Lord God, you value us worthy of respect and dignity. Your Word could not be more plain:

“The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).

Forgive our unrighteous judging, Lord. Cleanse your people with your Holy Spirit. May we be quick to snuff out this destructive spiritual enemy so we may see others only through your eyes, Jesus. Amen.