Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults—unless, of course, you want the same treatment. –Matthew 7:1 MSG
In John 8, a woman caught in the act of adultery was brought before Jesus. The woman stood in front of her accusers, judged by her actions. The people asked Jesus what should be done with her.
But the response of Jesus surprised them. “… let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone” (John 8:7 NLT). Jesus was (and is) the only one who could have legitimately thrown that first stone, but He chose not to. Instead, He was the ultimate sacrifice to atone for both her sins and ours.
Everyone has sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (see Romans 3:23). We were created for relationships, to encourage one another, not to condemn. 1 Peter 4:8 (NIV) explains, “Love covers over a multitude of sins.” It does not expose them.
The voice of God will teach us through our mistakes, and He will lead us to make better choices in the future. His voice will guide us into a life free of both condemnation and guilt.
Pray, asking for forgiveness for times when you have had a critical and judgmental spirit.
Ask God to convict you when you find a critical or self-righteous spirit creeping into your life.