Observation: This passage is specifically about how we interact with believers in the church ... the Greek word translated "brothers and sisters" is the generic word for "believers". That makes this instruction very clear, and very pointed. Believers are not to slander or judge other believers. Yes, we can and should correct them in a collaborative and helpful way when necessary, but we are not to speak ill of them. This is because, as believers, they are attempting to live by the Lord's will, and therefore we should not judge them, for only the Lord is their judge.
Application: This is a good reminder for me as I will prepare to be part of a "panel" speaking at church Sunday about giving and tithing. There are many people in our church who are not being faithful in this area, and part of me really wants to judge them. However, that is wrong.
I may instruct and correct, gently, in love, as if they are my brothers and sisters who need good information in order to then align their hearts to the Lord. If they do not, then the Lord is their judge, not me.
Yes, our household is very faithful in our giving. However, we fail in other areas. It is likely that those who fail at tithing are strong in those other areas where I am weak. This is the way the "body of Christ" works. I do hope that the Lord gives me wisdom and the words to help others understand how giving to Christ works in their own lives, and that I am able to educate, communicate, and maybe even offer correction as the Holy Spirit may convict others. But I will not judge.
Prayer: Lord, as I just said, may I be a voice for your will and your Holy Spirit this Sunday, giving good information and advice as you would have others hear it. Please remove my own judgment from the situation, and protect me from even having that judgment in the first place. Amen.
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