Do Not Judge
The thing that determines whether the exercise of making judgments is sinful or not is the attitude that accompanies it. Is it done in a humble, loving way or a proud, critical, unloving way?
Conflict is a fact of life. People have different motives, methods, perspectives, and desires. Some of these are sinful some are not. In fact trying to live a godly life in a sinful world will create conflict. Conflict per se isn't necessarily bad. But we have a problem when conflict stems from, is expressed with, or remains unresolved, because of sinful motives, attitudes, or actions.
God's Word addresses conflict with real practical direction aimed at our motives, attitudes, and actions.
The thing that determines whether the exercise of making judgments is sinful or not is the attitude that accompanies it. Is it done in a humble, loving way or a proud, critical, unloving way?
When someone hurts you deeply, it’s easy to feel justified in holding a grudge. But in this message, Chuck Swindoll warns us that holding onto resentment doesn’t just injure our relationship with the other person…it damages our relationship with God.
Standing on the dividing line between history and prophecy, one truth is constant—humanity relishes war. In the long, sad history of humanity, we have failed to learn the truth that war is a long-term, cruel business.
When we consult the Scriptures further we see that God does not explicitly command against war or against the taking of another’s life. Murder, which is different than killing, is explicitly condemned.
Walking closely with the Lord means we must come to terms with forgiving others. Yes, must. We can’t avoid or deny the fact that relationships often bring hurt and the need to forgive.
Conflicts among God's people are commonplace. But it doesn't have to be this way.
Throughout the history of the Church, there have been those who stirred up trouble and caused dissension. Unfortunately, there are always a few who refuse to repent even when confronted. Admittedly, these situations represent one of the more difficult and unpleasant aspects of ministry and the Christian life.
Conflict, like anger, is natural. What makes conflict sinful is wrong motives for it and negative manifestations of it.
People, including Christians, are confused about forgiveness. The Bible speaks mostly about God’s forgiveness of us and doesn’t say much about how forgiveness between people works.
True wisdom originates from outside our rashly impulsive natures. Wisdom comes from God Himself—straight from His heart...through His Word...to where we live.