James 2:13
2:13. For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
Mercy or Judgement
Judgment is good. It is the ability we use to tell if something meets a certain standard. Go to the grocery store and watch people buying fresh produce. You’ll see all kinds of judgement as people pick out just the right apple, or watermellon, or head of lettuce. The idea is to find the one that is freshest, looks best, and will taste good, and not be spoiled or rotten. It’s only smart and healthy to be discerning over food.
God has a specific standard that we each need to meet. When we don’t, he passes us over and we can’t be part of his shopping cart. God is in the place to judge. He knows both the inside and outside of our lives. We only know what is on the outside of those around us. We don’t have any authority to judge. We have a clue, because of the things written in the Bible. If judgement exists, let it be between God, and each individual.
Despite God’s judgement, he is also merciful. His mercy extends to all of us. None of us deserve it. When the opportunity to judge, or show mercy arises, choose mercy. Behavior that goes against God’s standards don’t have to be encouraged, or condoned. If it really bothers you, speak to the other person as a friend and show mercy and kindness. That’s the attribute of God that we need to reflect.
When in doubt, always be merciful.