One More Thing with Pastor Tim Burchill 02.18.2025

Practical Tips To Avoid Judging Others

 

          When I research a sermon, such as Sunday’s message on judgmentalism, I always try to think through some practical steps or tips in how to implement God’s desire for our lives.  I rustled together a herd of ideas this week and I offer them to you.  If you have a tendency (and maybe we all do) to look down in judgment on others, pick one or two of the following and put them into practice.  See if it doesn’t move you closer to the ideal Jesus holds out for us.

 

Practical Tip: Before forming an opinion, ask: “Is this based on deep thought or just personal bias?”

 

Practical Tip: Observe patterns of behavior, not just moments.

 

Practical Tip: When correcting someone, start with empathy before offering truth.

 

Practical Tip: If you catch yourself gossiping or complaining, redirect the conversation to something uplifting.

 

Practical Tip: Each morning, thank God for one specific way He has shown you grace, and let that gratitude shape how you treat others.

 

Practical Tip: Whenever you feel the urge to "correct" someone unnecessarily, say: "God, I trust You with this person."

 

Practical Tip: When you feel the urge to criticize someone, pause and say a quick prayer: “God, help me see this person as You see them.”

 

Try This Daily Prayer: "Lord, help me to see others as You see them. Remove any pride, bitterness, or self-righteousness in my heart. Teach me to love, extend grace, and encourage rather than condemn. Amen."

 

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