We have just concluded the most advertised and publicized political process in our nation’s history. All who read these words were surely affected in some way at the local and/or national level. What can be beneficially gleaned from it?

One lesson to be learned from the advertising must not be ignored. It was amazing how many candidates used their paid TV time, not to discuss themselves or their attributes, but devoted the time to castigate and criticize their opponent! Centered around that common cliché, “I approve of this message,” candidate after candidate badgered or belittled his or her opponent. When both candidates so do, how can one have confidence in, or build faith in either candidate?? Any counselor would be reminded of those moments when each party goes on the attack, talking vigorously about the other person, with no attention given to his or her character or qualifications for anything good! It is a sad way to build relationships or confidence in either party or person!

Centuries ago, Paul wrote: “But they themselves, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are without understanding” (11 Corinthians 10:12 ,emphasis mine-dk)! What a clear expression-and warning-about humanistic, judgmental measurements by men. We breed division, stimulate depression, and alienate one another any time we attack another without biblical principles to govern and guide us! Yet, how easy it is to measure other men by a humanistic ruler that was designed and developed with half facts and human limitations. Such conduct is not only without understanding, it certainly denies true understanding an opportunity to develop!

What should be done? Let Scripture and the Savior be the standard of measurement. His word is Truth (John 17:17), and His footprints were left to guide us in the way we should go and how we should treat each other (1 Peter 2:21-23), and to govern us in what we speak (1 Peter 4:11), Do not measure yourself by other men, but by that Man of Galilee!

We do need to identify faults in ourselves (11 Corinthians 13:5), and in others (Matthew 18:15-17), using Christ’s example and His word to guide us. Paul gave us a threefold test, identifying when we are ready to measure others, in Romans 15:14: “I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that (1) you yourselves are full of goodness, (2) filled with all knowledge (not half, self-selected, facts), (3) able also to admonish one another” (emphasis mine-dk). Be sure you prepare your act before you go on the attack. Judgmental jargons jeopardize justice!