Who Are You to Pass Judgment?

A Devotion on Avoiding Judgment and Praying for Others

Romans 14:4 says, “Who are you to pass judgment on another’s servant? Before his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.”

Judging Right from Wrong

Should we be able to judge right from wrong? Yes—but we have to be careful. There are days the sons and daughters of God don’t act very Christlike. Whether it’s in our thoughts or outward expressions, we all have moments where we fall short. And yes, the finger is pointing back at me! Sometimes, my thoughts aren’t as kind as they should be.

Recognizing God’s Children

I’m sure none of you ever think negatively about others, right? Oh, right! But here’s something I’ve learned: When I think unkind thoughts about a sister or brother in the Lord, I’m forgetting that they are God’s son or daughter! There have been times when I’ve had to go to the Lord and say, “I’m sorry.” But over the years, I’ve improved—because I’ve learned something important. That very person who gets under my skin might need our prayers!

Prayer Brings Peace

I also noticed that when I start praying for those who irritate me, the irritation leaves—every time! I may have to pray for the person more than once, but peace comes each time. So, the next time I irk you, or someone else does, take a moment to pray for them. Maybe, just maybe, those moments of frustration are nudges from the Holy Spirit, reminding us that they need our prayers. And in that moment, we have the opportunity to grow in obedience and love.

God’s Grace for All

Our brothers and sisters in Christ are God’s servants. They belong to Him—bought with the precious blood of Jesus. So be careful. We may be tempted to judge or enjoy when others stumble, but the Lord is able to make them stand. And thank God—He does the same for us! Proverbs 24:16 reminds us, “Though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble in times of calamity.”