Alex on #Judge

When was the last time you sang these words: "Your will above all else, my purpose remains / The art of losing myself in bringing you praise" then turned around and said something negative or condescending about someone? Believe this: the Bible speaks to you! James 3:10 says, "And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right!" (NLT)
At one church service, I overheard two girls talking to each other. One said loudly, "I hate that girl - the blonde one!" Fifteen minutes later they were raising their hands in worship to the music. Has this ever happened to you? I catch myself thinking or speaking cynical and unkind things about people all the time! Even when I'm supposed to be spending time with God!
What's wrong with this? The Bible says that people "have been made in the image of God", which means that we are relational (we like friends and community) and also that we are valuable to God. That's why it hurts so much when people say negative things about us. The truth is that each person on this earth, whether they look like a celebrity, whether they're talkative or shy, whether they make good grades or like to party... no matter what: Each person was created in the image of God. They are valuable and they matter to someone. So, treat them like you mean it! Everyone is worth getting to know. Everyone deserves respect.

Don’t speak evil against each other, dear brothers and sisters...

- James 4:11a

The entire law is summed up in a single command:

'Love your neighbor as yourself.'

- Galatians 5:14

Alex W / Message Writer