How can we guard against misjudging others, as Hanun did in 2 Samuel 10:4? Hanun’s Snap Judgment “So Hanun took David’s servants, shaved off half of each man’s beard, cut off their garments at the hips, and sent them away.” (2 Samuel 10:4) David’s genuine kindness (vv. 1–2) was misread as deceit, and one rash decision ignited a costly war. Why Faulty Assumptions Are So Destructive • They humiliate the innocent and harden the offender (Proverbs 18:19). • They spread suspicion, drawing many into needless conflict (Proverbs 26:20–21). • They oppose the love that “believes all things, hopes all things” (1 Corinthians 13:7). Guard Rails for the Heart • Listen first, speak later: “He who answers before he listens—this is his folly and his shame.” (Proverbs 18:13) • Verify facts: “The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.” (Proverbs 18:17) • Slow the impulse: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” (James 1:19–20) • Assume good motives until proven otherwise: love “is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs.” (1 Corinthians 13:5) • Submit suspicions to Christ: “Do not judge, or you will be judged.” (Matthew 7:1–2) Practical Habits That Nurture Discernment • Daily Scripture intake keeps the mind anchored in truth (Psalm 119:105). • Prayer for wisdom invites “peace-loving, gentle, reasonable” guidance from above (James 3:17). • Wise counsel provides balance: “With many counselors comes deliverance.” (Proverbs 11:14) • Journaling motives exposes hidden bias (Psalm 139:23–24). • Deliberate gratitude for others’ virtues tunes the heart to “whatever is admirable.” (Philippians 4:8) If Misjudgment Has Already Happened • Own the sin without excuse (1 John 1:9). • Seek forgiveness from the offended (Matthew 5:23–24). • Make restitution where possible (Luke 19:8). • Re-clothe the relationship in kindness and humility (Colossians 3:12–14). • Leave the outcome with God, who “gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) Living the Lesson Keeping a listening ear, a patient tongue, and a charitable heart shields us from Hanun’s error and lets Christ’s love shape every judgment we make. |
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