We can be so quick to judge others. We size people up, looking for their flaws, anything that seems off. Yet the irony of it all is that the people we judge are often just a reflection of ourselves. What do we judge? We judge what we recognize. When something seems off, when we notice an action, a motive, or a swagger that reminds us of our own faults, we put on the robe of false righteousness as if we were playing the part of God, pronouncing judgment on others for things we are guilty of ourselves. At the same time, we expect kindness, grace, and forbearance.

Why do we do this? Is it to cover our own shame, failures, and flaws? Perhaps we are trying to justify ourselves with the thought, “At least I am not as bad as they are” (Luke 18:11). However, we all fall short of the glory of God and are in need of salvation (Romans 3:23). Sin, in the eyes of God, is sin. It deserves wrath, no matter how it is disguised, often appearing righteous but, at its core, just as putrid and nefarious as the most heinous sin (Matthew 23:27-28).

As we look at others and reflect on ourselves, we begin to see the kindness, forbearance, and patience of God has for all humanity. (2 Peter 3:9) We realize we have, for a time, been spared from the wrath of God for our actions. This is the kindness of God, allowing us to come to the realization of our genuine need for salvation and the salvation of the world. Yet when this realization does not come, the things we witness in others are precisely what testify against our own actions.

This is the work of God’s Spirit in the lives of humanity, testifying about sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:18). It is the testimony and reception of the work of the Spirit that compels us to put on a new nature (Ephesians 4:24). This new nature produces works of righteousness, works that align with the Spirit of God, resulting in patience and good works (Matthew 25:31-46). Those who disregard the testimony of the Spirit and live according to their own fallen nature will receive the same judgment they have pronounced on others.

Heavenly Father, grant us spiritual eyes see the great love you have for humanity. Help us to be patient with one another, allowing space for your transformative work to take place in our hearts, leading to lasting change. May we grow in grace as we recognize the grace you have given us.