Yesterday we talked about focusing on Encouragement in 2010. That’s a logical place to start. It’s a feel good goal. But today? Let’s move on from milk to solid food! (1 Corinthians 3:2)

I have been processing deeply the last few weeks on this word JUDGMENT. As I held the mirror up to my face, I didn’t like the reflection. What I saw staring back at me was that judgment has become as natural as encouragement! In fact, when I really stared hard into the mirror, I saw that encouragement actually took intentional effort and judgment flowed effortlessly from my heart and my lips.

And, of course, the Bible is full of painful reminders about judgement…like this one from Jesus:

Do not judge others and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged.   Matthew 7:1-2  (NLT)

How about you? What do you see when you look in the mirror? It seems that being judgmental has become a normal rhythm in our marriages, our parenting, our friendships…and especially our work.

It can be even more difficult in our work. Why? Because there is such a fine line between performance evaluation and judgment.

So, what’s the answer? I can’t improve on Jesus’ words…The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged.

Jesus, thank you for shining your light on this word. It has become a normal, assumed part of my life. Everyone does it, so it must be ok. Jesus give me the courage in 2010…beginning today…to change the reflection in the mirror. To bite my judgmental tongue or bury my judgmental thought. Thank you Jesus…Amen