How can we apply spiritual judgment in daily decisions without being judgmental? Setting the Foundation: What Does “Judges All Things” Mean? 1 Corinthians 2:15: “The spiritual man judges all things, but he himself is not subject to anyone’s judgment.” • “Judges” (Greek: anakrínō) speaks of discernment—sifting, examining, evaluating. • Paul is contrasting Spirit-led believers with the “natural man” (v. 14) who lacks spiritual perception. • The verse affirms that Spirit-filled believers can weigh everything they encounter—ideas, influences, choices—through God’s revealed truth. Recognizing the Source of Spiritual Discernment • The Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:10-12) reveals God’s thoughts, enabling believers to see beneath the surface. • Scripture is the objective standard (Psalm 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Christ’s mind is available to us (1 Corinthians 2:16); His character shapes how we discern. Balancing Discernment with Grace • John 7:24: “Do not judge by appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.” Righteous judgment is fair, humble, Scripture-anchored. • James 3:17: wisdom from above is “pure, then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” • Galatians 6:1: restore those caught in sin “in a spirit of gentleness,” watching ourselves lest we fall. Practical Steps for Daily Decisions 1. Filter motives – Ask: Does this honor the Lord? (1 Corinthians 10:31) – Is love the driving motive? (1 Corinthians 13:1-3) 2. Consult Scripture first – Keep key passages in mind: Proverbs 3:5-6; Philippians 4:8; Colossians 3:17. 3. Pray for insight – James 1:5 promises wisdom without reproach. 4. Listen for the Spirit’s check – Romans 8:14: “those led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” 5. Seek godly counsel – Proverbs 11:14; Hebrews 13:7—experienced believers confirm direction. 6. Evaluate fruit – Matthew 7:16: good trees bear good fruit. Look for the outcome of righteousness, peace, joy (Romans 14:17). Guardrails Against a Judgmental Spirit • Remember personal accountability (Romans 14:10-13). • Remove your own plank first (Matthew 7:3-5). • Speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), seasoned with grace (Colossians 4:6). • Celebrate God’s work in others (1 Thessalonians 5:11). • Stay mindful of mercy received (Titus 3:3-5). Putting It All Together Today As spiritual people, we are called to weigh every influence and decision through God’s Word and Spirit. Discern diligently, yet walk humbly. When Scripture governs the mind and love governs the heart, spiritual judgment guides daily choices without sliding into harsh, self-righteous criticism. |
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