For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. (Romans 14:9-10)
It doesn’t matter how much money you have, what title you hold, or what grand deeds you have done. All of us will stand before God’s judgment seat. No one is exempt. No one can evade the moment when they will stand before God. No one will be there with you. It will be a deeply personal moment with the One who knows your every thought, deed, and motive. In that moment, you won’t have any of your earthly status, possessions, or awards. It will simply be you and the Savior evaluating your life.
Also, notice what Paul penned within this revelation: "Why do you judge your brother? Or why do you despise your brother?”
One thing we will be judged on is how we judged others. Are we quick to judge our brothers and sisters? Or do we show them the love and mercy that Christ has shown us? We are called to live a life that honors God, loves others, and seeks to build up, not tear down.
We all will stand before a judgment seat. For believers, the judgment seat of Christ is the place of reward for what you’ve done in this life. God won’t condemn us of our wrongs because our sins have been wiped out by the blood of Jesus, but He will reward believers who followed Him with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Live your life so on that day you will hear, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Practical Application
When you are tempted to judge someone for their actions, reactions, or way of doing things, pause and think about how God had mercy on you. Decide to speak, act, and think the way love acts. Ask yourself, “How can I sow God’s love into this situation?”