“The first to speak in court sounds right— until the cross-examination begins.” Proverbs 18:17
Have you ever had someone judge you falsely? It does not feel good. Yet I believe it happens all the time. We can be quick to assume things about others and make snap judgements based on very limited information. This can happen with news that is passed around and teachings of various kinds as well. This world has a lot of misinformation, inaccurate judgements, and skewed opinions. It’s ironic how we can see it so clearly when we are on the receiving end of it but can dish it out without much thought. The Proverb above reminds us that many things in life might seem initially true to us, but upon further examination they can prove false.
We can apply this wisdom mentioned in the Proverb above in several ways. First, we can make sure that we are not unfairly judging others without knowing the whole story. Even God, who always knows the whole story, would give others love over judgement. Secondly, we should search for the truth with diligence. We should train our minds to see things from another perspective and inquire if we really have the best information from the best sources. Have we given enough time and effort to uncovering the truth or are we forming opinions simply because it is easier or feels more secure? Thirdly (and these aren’t in order), we should absolutely pray and seek God’s counsel in His Word. Only God can ultimately help us arbitrate the truth.
One sibling might seem right until a parent hears the full story. A boss might judge an employee without full understanding. A citizen might judge another citizen without knowing about their story of hardship. A spouse might feel justified until they genuinely listen to their husband or wife’s perspective.
I’ve wondered how often we treat others or judge them based on false assumptions that are inaccurate. How many times have we categorized something in our mind to obtain a sense of security of understanding whether or not that understanding is accurate? May we learn to live in the tension of unknowns, showing grace, humbly trusting God and living out the truth that we do know for certain in love.