Thoughts for the Day

Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God's mysteries. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they should be found trustworthy. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. I do not even judge myself. I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me.

Therefore do not pronounce judgement before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive commendation from God.

(Church in Wales Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

St Paul is having problems with the Corinthians, who judge him as beneath them and don't respect his authority. He points out that they should regard him as a servant - he uses the word for an under-servant, not a slave, but not much higher. He also says he is steward and the prime duty of a steward is to be faithful to their master.

Paul is a little disparaging of the locals who judge him, for neither they nor him can really judge each other correctly. He points out that the only important thing is the judgement that God makes.

So what can we draw out from this? We should be careful not to judge others, particularly without knowing their circumstances, and we should remember that God judges our hearts, not just our outward appearance and actions.

Lord God,
often we judge others
without knowing the circumstances.
Help us not to make judgements,
and to offer ourselves to You
allowing Your Spirit to mould us
into the people You want us to be.
Amen.