1 Corinthians 4:1-5 So look at Apollos and me (Paul) as mere servants of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful. As for me, it matters very little how I might be evaluated by you or by any human authority. I don’t even trust my own judgment on this point. My conscience is clear, but that doesn’t prove I’m right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide. So don’t make judgments about anyone ahead of time – before the Lord returns. For he will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. Then God will give to each one whatever praise is due.
This is how I would have you live. You are to focus on me, and on your own actions. Unless someone is obviously, grievously sinning – blatantly disobedient, violent, evil – then do not engage. Many will appear to be doing my work – and are not. Many will seem to be opposed to me, misrepresenting me in some ways – and are not evil but just misguided. You do not know. You do not see the heart. You do not know motive. Only I do. So leave the judging to me. Engage those who are misguided, try to instruct them. But stay out of public outcries, stay away from openly judging them, criticizing them. Remember, I can and do use anyone – even your enemies at times – for greater good. Do not forget the story of Joseph – what was meant for evil I used for good. Do not allow your emotions to dictate how you engage with others. Look to me, to my Word, listen to the Spirit within you. Remember, you have chosen to represent me. So watch yourself and how you walk instead of spending so much time watching and judging others. Discernment is necessary – it will instruct you in how much time and effort to expend, in whom to target, in what to say. Use discernment – but as a way to plan your life, not as a weapon to bash others. And never, never, never forget that your first focus is me – who I am. Then, look to see how your life aligns with that and do whatever is necessary to bring them into alignment. I will take care of everyone else – you take care of you.
Amanuensis 