Judgement shuts the door to our influence. Actually, it more than shuts the door. I believe we can safely say that we will experience a door that will slam shut so hard that the hinges will probably rattle!
Once we have used judgement as the basis of our argument, we have lost the ability to influence others for good. A good that could bring redeeming value, but which has now been lost to an accusatory word or look. It does not take much effort to create an atmosphere that is antagonistic, with far reaching consequences. The Word of God makes it very clear when it warns us not to judge. For as we judge others, so will the same measure be used against us, and the danger actually goes ever further.
When we judge someone else it is not usually in private. These things have a way of getting out, causing others to examine if they too should make a judgment call. We see this being played out all across our nation as we stand on one side or another. Essentially, the one who judges may now be responsible for causing another person to stumble. A mob mentality can breed contempt. For this reason we must continually scrutinize our motives. Paying critical attention to our conduct.
It is an insidious ploy of the enemy to get us accusing each other in such a way that we believe we are justified in doing so. God’s Word makes it very clear that judgement will not be tolerated. Even if we start out from a place of love, but get to this place where we sit in judgement, it shall be called what it is!
James 4:12 NKJV There is one Lawgiver, who is able to save and destroy. Who are you to judge another?
Matthew 7:1-2 CSB “Do not judge, so that you won’t be judged. For you will be judged by the same standard with which you judge others, and you will be measured by the same measure you use.”