Jesus’ command, “Do not judge,” does not forbid discerning right from wrong but warns against a self-righteous, judgmental spirit. If we pass judgment on others, God will measure to us according to the same measure we use for them. We may use two measures: a measure of justice and a measure of mercy. Our plank-like sins may be far worse than the speck-like sins of those we criticize. God is the perfect Judge, with perfect righteousness and insight to judge others rightly. Therefore, before judging others, we must first examine ourselves and approach others with mercy. Still, discernment is necessary to protect what is sacred from those who would trample it.

Our God is a loving Father who delights in giving good gifts to his children when they ask. As God’s children, we can approach him confidently in prayer. And prayer is relational, not transactional. Jesus teaches us to pray with persistence and progression: ask, seek, and knock. Asking acknowledges that God is the giver and we are the receivers. Seeking means earnestly pursuing God’s purpose, will, and way. Knocking demonstrates perseverance until the door is opened in God’s timing. Jesus assures us that God always answers our prayers.
Application: Lord, help me take a measure of mercy toward others’ faults. Grant me the spirit of persistent prayer until the door is opened.
One Word: Pray persistently