You don’t have to look very far to see people doing wrong. It’s easy to find sin—it’s everywhere. Selfishness and greed prevail in business and politics; dishonesty is the bread and butter of our so-called “news” providers. To quote Paul, “There is none righteous—not one!”
Of course, sin can be found closer to home as well. Alas, it’s as close as your mirror. We all suffer from the common human condition. That’s why it doesn’t make sense for us to pass judgment on our fellow man. I am the thief, the addict, the murderer, the cheat—but for the grace of Almighty God. It is my obligation—my pleasure—to share that grace with folks who really need it. Let God judge, but let me forgive.
James makes this point: “Judgement will be without mercy to anyone who has shown no mercy.” He is reiterating a principle laid down by the Lord: “If you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” That’s how important mercy is. The Christ-like heart is filled with forgiveness rather than judgment—and thank God that it is! Were it not for mercy, none of us could be saved. “Mercy triumphs over judgment.”
That’s something to think about.
Westside Church of Christ 