Day 17 - Judging a Book by it's Cover - More of Jesus Devotional

Judging a Book by it’s Cover

By Tina Pinson

“For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged. And with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Matthew 6:2

             As a writer, I try to make my book covers appealing to the eye, so they’ll sell better. But that is not a measure we are supposed to use on others. Sadly though, we do.

            Years ago, hubby was in the Navy. With three boys and little money, I would augment funds babysitting, making burritos, and sewing clothes for the boys out of hubby’s worn clothes. When we moved into Military housing, things eased, but we still had little room to breathe. We started attending a church nearby. An affluent church. The people were nice for the most part. They dressed in designer clothes, and drove expensive cars. We’d pull up in our old Ford, wearing our thrift store rejects, handmade clothes, or last year’s sales, and I felt out of place. Maybe I was the snob, but some of the looks we got said otherwise. I loved the Bible study though. Without the designer masks of wealth and education (and other masks) people were real. We had similar problems. Similar dreams.

            Shortly after that, we attended a poorer church where I was among the more affluent people. Having been on the receiving end of upturned noses, I figured I was doing well not using my station above others.

           Then a woman came to church in a short slinky, low cut, spaghetti-strapped dress that resembled a slip. I saw her bra straps (times have changed). Dressing in expensive clothes or Target sales garments was one thing, but one did not come to church dressed like a tramp. A good Christian, I decided to say something. Oh, not to her. I cut her behind her back. But the woman I crowed to, was having none of it. She told me the woman was poor, and she was wearing the best she had for the Lord. She wore it almost weekly. I limped away to lick my wounds and the Lord reminded me how I felt at the other church. I wish could say I never stood in judgement or was judged harshly again. But I can’t.

           Scripture may tell us to hold brothers and sisters in Christ accountable and we could probably do a better job of that. But we better make sure we are following the Lord’s guidelines and going with His heart.

Questions:

Have you been on the receiving end of judgement? How did it make you feel?

What is the difference between accountability and judgement?

Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? Mathew 7:3 (ESV) What does this verse tell you about judging others?

Matthew 7:6 it says Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces. What does vs. 6 tell you about judging? Ask the Lord for insight and write your thoughts.

Food for thought. Matthew 5-7 and Luke 6