I have had the privilege of being a part of the “Can We Talk About This?” Series at a local church here in Amarillo.

We began this series by talking about common open doors to the enemy.  We all know that if you leave your windows cracked or door unlocked, a thief could come in.  Right? So then, why are we as believers in the habit of doing so with the thief Jesus warns us about?

“Thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” John 10:10

“Be self-controlled and alert.  Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.  Resist him standing firm in the faith…” 2 Peter 5:8-9

There are so many ways we can open doors to the enemy, but I want to share with you one that I believe is very common in believers today…

Open door #1: Judgementalism

To “judge” is defined as:

• to give an opinion,
• to give a verdict on someone,
• to pronounce guilty or innocent, and
• the greek word is “krino”—which means to decree condemnation or approval and esteem on a person.

The truth is that, as Christians, we are not to pass judgement—condemnation or approval on people. Our deciding or opinions are irrelevant, God is the only righteous judge.  God, Himself, through His Word has judged sin and behaviors.  As Christians, we are to stand on lifestyles, values, principles, and against sin that has already been decided on or judged by God.  Agreeing with what God says in His Word about sin is not being judgmental.

God is comfortable with what He has said, regarding sin and immorality.

God is not waiting on us to weigh in with our opinion to validate His.

God doesn’t need to apologize for what He has said or the way in which He said it.

So, if He is the judge, and we are not in the business of judging people—then what is our job?

“You, my brothers and sisters were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:13-14

Our job is to stand for truth and righteousness based on God’s Word. Love people.

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.” Deuteronomy 6:4-8

“God’s kindness leads people to repentance.” Romans 2:1-4

In the coming days, I will be sharing more common open doors to the enemy.

My love,