Most everyone at some time has felt as though someone was being too critical of them. Why is it that some criticism is acceptable, but others seem cruel or condemning? Jesus teaches us that we should not judge in a condemning or hypocritical way (Matthew 7:1-5). So then, if we see an abominable act, are we supposed to pretend there is nothing wrong with it for fear of condemning the perpetrator? No, Jesus taught us in John 7:24 to judge righteously, not according to appearance. So how then are we to know when to call something wrong, or when to give someone the benefit of the doubt?

Jesus told us to ask Him for help (Matthew 7:7-11). Jesus gave us a rule to live by, which serves well to help us in judging right from wrong. One of the best known teachings of Jesus is the "Golden Rule" (Matthew 7:12) which can be paraphrased as "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you". Also Jesus told us that we would know the bad from the good by it's fruit (Matthew 7:13-16). Have you been guilty of a condemning or critical spirit? Do you find yourself looking down on other's shortcomings? Jesus told us that with the same measure that we judge, we will be judged (Matthew 7:2)!