Hearing Precedes Judgement

Apostle Grace Lubega

John 5:30 (KJV); I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.

Our Lord and master Jesus said, “As I hear, I judge”.

Church history records an interesting account of what it means to hear before one judges.

In his Book, God’s Generals, Roberts Liardon gives an account of how William Branham, called to be a prophet of God, had ventured into the teaching ministry with dire consequences.

His teachings attracted great criticism from many in the church of Christ. He was ridiculed, judged and condemned by several people.

It is recorded that the young minister, Kenneth Hagin, received a prophecy from the Lord and made a pronouncement that on a particular date, the Lord was calling his servant William Branham home. This prophecy was fulfilled.

Kenneth Hagin heard before he judged.

How about in the New Testament teachings; when Ananias and Sapphire lied to the apostles, Peter said, “How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.” At that moment she fell down at his feet and died (Acts 5:9-10).

He heard before he spoke.
Such divine judgment is always in line with the voice of God.

Understand that it is not an opportunity for a man or woman of God to prove his or her power and boast over the fact that what he or she says comes to pass.

It is a place of authority for men with a divine mandate and assignment to set things right in the house of God.

This authority is always exercised in LOVE.

When a man judges without first hearing the voice of God, what he says are “idle words.”

They are idle because they are void of the divine authority that pronounces judgment in any situation.

For these idle words, the Bible says, you will have to give account to God (Matthew 12:36).

Beloved saint, make it a point to hear God before you judge another man because this is the wisdom of those that are mature in God.

FURTHER STUDY: James 4:12; Hebrews 7:25

GOLDEN NUGGET:

When a man judges without first hearing the voice of God, what he says are “idle words.” They are idle because they are void of the divine authority that pronounces judgment in any situation.

PRAYER: Loving Father I am grateful for your Word. Thank you for this wisdom that leads me to pray rather than judge fellow sisters and brothers. My God, you are love and they that do not love do not know You. I choose to love men and not judge them. Thank you for reminding me that even in any one’s weakness, You are able to uphold them and keep them from falling! This wisdom works in me, to the glory of Your name. Amen.