I’m glad that God knows our hearts, our minds, our intentions. For we live in a world where some have a tendency to create their own narratives, form their own opinions (whether baseless or not), draw their own conclusions. Yet, in doing so, can form misguided opinions on others and in doing so can fuel animosity or hate. That is why the Bible places much emphasis on letting God be the judge. We can make informed decisions on how we want people to play a role in our lives based on facts and biblical principles. We can defend those principles and our faith. Though the rest we leave in God’s capable and knowing hands. There is much disdain and hate that derives from casting judgement. Even when we know both on moral and Biblical principles that someone is wrong, we must be careful on how we tread. We can stand up for what’s right (and we should), though without spewing meanness or hate. We must share truth and then let God deal with it. We must remember that we hate whatever the action or words that go against God is, though we must remember in doing so not to hate the person. Just as Jesus spoke to love God, and love one another. For hate doesn’t change hearts. Though informing others of truth and offering prayer is where changes are possible. If not, that is between them and God. For He knows our hearts, our minds, our intentions. In our quest to defend our morals and Biblical principles, may we do it in a way driven by love. 

Erin Fitts-Brower 

Matthew 7:1-3 NIV

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.  For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?

Jude 1:22-23 NIV

Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.

Mark 12:30-31 NIV

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”