Most of us have heard the phrase, ‘Do unto others as you would have them to do unto you’. 

While we might find some justification for responding improperly to others—as if they deserve it—truth is, no action satisfies a reason for mistreatment.  Ultimately, it boils down to the personal infliction of our personal judgment.

Luke 6:37-38 reminds us of this…“Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.” 

I think we misinterpret the meaning of the words ‘judge not’. The Message Bible Version, helped me to gain a clearer picture of what this really means. 

“Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults—unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don’t condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you’ll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity.” The Message Bible Version 

Stop picking. Stop jumping on the failures of others. Stop criticizing. Start forgiving. Be a blessing and be blessed.

Make a change.  Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.