SLOW TO JUDGE

Judging is a topic greatly misunderstood. Many use the Christ teaching of “Judge not lest you be judged” as some kind of free pass from any behavior of theirs being scrutinized or commented on. This is only a half-truth however. We not only should comment on the behavior of others but Living on the Spiritual Basis makes it a requirement. The difficulty arises when we confuse righteous judgment with condemnation. The following definition of condemnation is illustrative:

To pronounce something or somebody as bad: to state that something or somebody is in some way wrong or unacceptable. (Encarta)

To do this places us in a position to be harmed, for we place ourselves in a morally elevated position, better than, which of course is false. No one is above or below any other in the sight of God. Though our paths may be very different, our challenges and lessons in life diverse, no one is beyond grace or forgiveness in Spirit if they truly mean business and desire change. This does not mean crimes and transgressions committed against our fellows are forgotten or ignored, for a price must be paid, but we are willing to pay any price for salvation and freedom from the bondage of self.

Righteous judgment is seeing the individual and their actions in the light of the Spiritual Awakening we have experienced, realizing for them, through prayer and meditation, the Presence of Divine Knowledge and Guidance in their lives. To be crystal clear: Righteous judgment comes from the heart and is always given with the hope and desire for the transgressor to find the path of enlightenment but does not mean they are excused from or immune to the consequences of their actions. They will reap as they sow and will only truly grow in the light once they become willing to do the necessary spiritual work. We are mistaken and place ourselves in danger when we pass judgment that condemns or wishes harm to any one. Hate does not cease with hate. Anger is never assuaged with more anger. Condemnation never builds character or leads to freedom.

Judge righteously and the whole world improves, condemn and we all suffer for we are connected in Spirit, all children of the Divine Presence.