Judging

Text: Romans 14:10-13

Theme: Mind your own coming judgement, and strive to help others with theirs.

Key verses: “So why do you condemn another believer? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God” (v. 10). “Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God. So let’s stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall” (v. 12-13).

What God said to me: This is quite timely for you, Dwayne. You have things you need to examine and “judge” about your actions and thoughts. You have enough issues to keep you focused on about yourself. Best you can do is lean on my mercy and grace as you strive to die to your selfish, sinful, fleshly ways. And then with any extra time and energy you have left, help others to prepare well for their inevitable judgement as well. This doesn’t take much explanation. I love you. I am for you. I am interceding on your behalf. I sent my Spirit to live in you and empower, teach and guide you. You can do all things through my Son who gives you strength. The only thing we won’t do for you is crucify you. You have to take your own cross and follow me. That is your only job. Get out of the way and trust me to live through you each and every day. When I live through you I will help fulfill the law of Christ, which is to love others as Christ loved the Church and gave himself for it. Part of loving others is warning them of impending judgement when they stand before me. Start today. Confess your sins. Die to your will and way. Then look for people around you who cross your path today, people who need to know I love them and died for them to give them eternal life and peace. See you to it.

What I said to God: Holy Father, that is who You are, the heavenly Father whose awesome name is hallowed. I thank You for speaking to me today, at this breezy restaurant atop this hotel in Nairobi. And what a Father You are! What a Forgiver and Friend! Please help me truly die to my selfish desires. Cleanse me of secret sins. Restore the joy of Your salvation and create in me a clean heart, O God. Lead me to other people I can encourage and point toward You today. Watch over my travels to Germany tonight, and go before us as we minister within and scout out this new country. Thank You for entrusting me with such an amazing ministry. It’s all You and Your grace! Always has been and always will be YOU only. To YOU be all the glory!