Reading With the People of God #12 - the Good LifeSample

The God Who Sees and Judges Rightly

We live in a world full of opinions, accusations, and judgments. We judge others, and they judge us. But Scripture reminds us that ultimate judgment belongs to God alone—and He sees everything clearly.

In 1 Kings 18, Elijah confronts the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. The people of Israel had wavered between worshiping God and following false idols. Elijah calls for a test: whichever god answers by fire is the true God. Despite all their efforts, Baal remains silent. But when Elijah prays, the Lord responds with consuming fire, proving He alone is the righteous judge.

Jesus warns in Matthew 7:1-2 about the dangers of human judgment. He tells us to be careful how we judge others, because the standard we use will be applied to us. Unlike God, we don’t see the full picture. We are quick to make assumptions, but only God can judge rightly.

The people on Mount Carmel had been deceived into following a powerless god, but the true Judge exposed the truth. In our own lives, we must be cautious of making judgments without humility. Only God’s justice is perfect, and only He can reveal what is true.

As you read these passages, consider:

Do you trust God to be the true Judge, or do you take that role upon yourself?