Hello, everyone. Being a Christian means gradually becoming more Christ-like in thought, word and deed. Today’s prayer concentrates on our ingrained, automatic judgmental thoughts about other people. Changing our thought patterns takes self-awareness and persistence, but using the method described below, it is possible. It’s important not to beat ourselves up about our unwanted thoughts, but simply to recognise them, say sorry, and replace them with a prayer – every time. With practice, they will reduce in frequency and become less habitual.
Judging others
- You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgement seat (Romans 14:10; NIV).
- …we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5; NIV).
- There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known (Luke 12:2; NIV).
- Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2; NIV).
Father,
You know my thoughts
Before I know them myself.
You know exactly
How foolish,
Judgemental, critical,
Prejudiced and superior
I can be.
Please help me to notice
Every unkind thought at once,
So I can take it captive,
Whisper, “Sorry, Lord“,
And dismiss it instantly.
Then,
Please help me to replace it
With a prayer
For the person concerned.
I ask this in Jesus’ holy name,
Amen.