How do you sort the good from the bad? Is it solely your decision? Do you abide by a moral authority? Do you believe in an opportunity for redemption? If so, how can the bad be redeemed? Do you regularly pass judgment? If so, why do you believe you are qualified to do so?
We decide, in our own minds, what is good and bad almost continuously. Our definitions of good and bad are based on many factors, including how it affects us, what we have been taught, and even based on our feelings. Basing it on God’s principles is not always done.
Jesus tells us in a parable that at the end of time God will send angels to separate the good from the bad. The determination of who is good or bad will be solely based on God’s judgment. Based on my studies and observations, we will all be surprised at who is judged good or bad. Our limited human insights keep us from seeing all that God sees. We don’t see the inner being. We don’t see every struggle someone else is experiencing. We don’t know every experience someone has experienced throughout their life.
God knows the abilities he has blessed each one of us with. He knows how we have used those abilities. He knows every intention, hateful thought, struggle with depression, the financial stresses, roadblock and hurdle we have faced. He also knows that the sacrifice of Jesus covers our sins. For those who have accepted Christ and continue to struggle, there is hope. That hope is Jesus. God knows we hold onto that hope and all of us need it.
I pray we all stop judging others based on our limited knowledge. I pray we know God sees our struggles. I pray each one of us continues to hold onto the hope we have in Jesus Christ. Stop judging others. God sees your struggles. Hold onto hope. Hold onto Jesus.
Matthew 13:47-48 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but threw out the bad.”
Marty Pressey 