“There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?” (James 4:12, NIV).

One of my patients is a pastor. He came in today talking about a certain politician. Someone else had commented to him, “You know he’s right because he is a Christian.” My pastor disagreed, “I know he’s wrong because you can see the demonic in him.”

How do we go about judging people? Personally, I dislike hearing politicians talk about their faith when they’re running for office. It’s almost impossible to tell if they are sincere or if they are trolling for votes. I certainly prefer they be Christians, but I’m more likely to support those who present Christ-like policies and demonstrate Christ-like character than those who spout religious words—my bias.

What about other folks? Whom should we judge?

We should never judge drivers who slow us down in traffic, at least until we pass them and are sure there’s no handicap sticker on their mirrors.

I think it’s good to judge the character and qualifications of those who might join us in work, service or deep relationships. The Bible gives us guidelines to do so. Such judgment should be based more on actions than words. Words are easy.

We should never judge the motives of those with whom we disagree, unless they speak their motives clearly. We rarely know people well enough to understand their hearts

We should never judge God’s love for others based on our observations, whatever their deeds. God loves all bad people, including me. While I was still a sinner, Christ died for me (Romans 5:8).

We should never judge our usefulness to God’s kingdom, regardless of our past. Look who wrote “Amazing Grace.”

We should never judge God’s plan to bring folks to heaven. I pray I’m wrong when I assume God would never save “that one.” God’s grace is the only way a sinner such as I will ever see Jesus on the other side of glory.

So, whether it be politicians, neighbors or thieves, it is better that I not judge people and let God do that work with love.

Dear Father,

Help me to be wise in my relationships without judging the motives of others.

Amen