Judging Righteously

Jesus once said “I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.”  (see John 5:10)

Jesus clearly understood that he was ineffectual when relying on his own opinions and efforts – on his human capacity.  But when seeking – and trusting – God’s will, he knew his judgements to be righteous.  He expected that God would direct him under all circumstances, and he leaned exclusively on his heavenly Father for everything.

That is a perfect model and methodology for you and me.  And to the extent that we meekly turn to God to meet each need and to provide every viewpoint, do we also judge righteous judgement.

Jesus gave some clues about how to do this.  In Matthew, he explained: “Judge not, that ye be not judged.  For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged.”  (see 7:1,2)  He clarified that judging after the appearance, after the flesh, would be misleading.  He even went so far as to say he judged no man!  (see John 7:24 and 8:15)

Even before examining our own process of judging, the first step, it seems, is to be clear – as Jesus was – that we can of our own selves do nothing.  This requires prayer, prayer, and more prayer that meekly watches for and obediently consents to the spiritual messages that God is constantly pouring forth (and which are not returning unto Him void – see Isaiah 55:11).  As we are a willing audience for these divine directives, and as we strive – even struggle – to put them into practice, we can begin to hope that our judgement will be righteous.

God so loved the world that He gave us His son.  Not just as a savior, but as an example.  So, it is possible, in fact it’s required, that we learn to judge without error.

Melissa Hayden is a Christian Science practitioner in Salem, OR. You can find more information and additional articles at this link.  If you like what you’re reading, click the “add me” button.