Choose Mercy

“Against You, only You, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight; so You are right in Your verdict and justified when You judge.”  Psalm 51:4

One of the most effective tools against hypocrisy is to remember that all sin is against God and God only. While our sins do affect other people, and the sins of others can affect us, God is the only righteous judge; therefore all sin is against Him. This Holy God – in His infinite wisdom and mercy – has chosen to pour out the punishment for sin against Him onto His blameless Son. The magnitude of this truth and the depths of this love should create humility, not pride or arrogance.

The next time you find yourself struggling with judgmental or critical thoughts, feelings, and attitudes towards another person, just take a moment to ponder the cross. Let your mind dwell on the truth that there is only One worthy to judge.  He sees all sin, and His ways are higher and better than ours. If anyone has ever had the right to be critical and judgmental, it is Him, for there has never been a plank in His holy eye. He clearly sees to the heart of us all. And despite the wickedness found there, He has chosen mercy.

The Righteous Judge has spoken in His Son. He desires repentance. He takes no pleasure in the sin of others. He desires that none would perish without Jesus. Who are we, sinners saved by this amazing grace, to think or act any differently? The Judge has spoken.  He doesn’t ignore sin nor condemn sinners. His message is forgiveness, restoration, and reconciliation.

Father, please keep me ever mindful that all sin is against You.  I pray that all sin, both mine and others' sins, will grieve my heart because it is against You. You, LORD, are the only righteous Judge. In Jesus’ name, amen.