Do not judge

Matthew 7:1-2

Do not judge, so that you may not be judged. For with the judgment you make you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get.

"Don't be so judgmental"
it's a phrase often shouted,
often in anger,
and ironically, often in judgment of the other!

Lord,
some even say they are quoting you on this.
Do not judge,
so that you may not be judged.
I wrestle with what you mean here...
I wonder what you mean by "do not judge".

Judge must be different that Discern.
While I am certainly NOT
the jury or judge of another's worthiness, righteousness, etc
You spent time with sinners...
But you do call us to discern.
"You will know them by their fruits" you say.

So what's the difference
between judging and discerning.

Judging seems to suggest
that I think I am better, more worthy, more holy,
than another.
In so doing, I reveal the truth
that actually I am no better;
I am a sinner.

Discernment seems to suggest
a slow process, a wrestling, a listening,
trying to figure out what would be Christ's will.
Indeed seeking your face
in the midst of the situation or relationship.

Judging says,
"I'm right; you're wrong."
Discerning says,
"I'm not certain, but I think this the right; I could be wrong.
Help me understand your point of view."

Discernment seems to invite
conversation partners into the process
to figure what would be best.

Help me do the hard work of discernment.
Show me your way, your will forward.
To the glory of God.
Amen