‘Judge with Righteous Judgment’

by Leonard V Johnson

Notice the following from Harbinger’s Daily back in 2025 ──

August 5, 2025

Biblical Illiteracy: There Are Few Verses In Scripture As Mishandled As ‘Judge Not’

The couple who became famous from HGTV’s popular Fixer Upper show, Chip and Joanna Gaines, made headlines recently because they are professing Christians, and yet they platformed two men in a gay “marriage” on their new show. Reportedly, in response to the outcry from Christians, the couple claimed, “Doesn’t the Bible say, ‘judge not’; who are you to tell people what they can, and cannot do?” Well, the Bible tells us what we can and can’t do as Christians!

There are few verses in Scripture that are mishandled as much as Matthew 7:1, “Judge not, that you be not judged.” Whenever someone quotes that verse, as apparently the Gaineses did, to justify embracing or turning a blind eye to sin, they are completely ignoring the context. …

Clearly, within context, Jesus is not saying never to make judgments—that’s impossible anyway. …

This kind of misinterpretation of Scripture because of a lack of belief in the authority of Scripture (often coupled with biblical illiteracy!) is sadly very common, not just among professing Christian celebrities, but within churches, Christian colleges and universities, and even seminaries. … once you abandon the truth and authority of God’s Word beginning in Genesis, more compromise follows. And that’s exactly what we see in so many of these stories of compromising Christians.

(https://harbingersdaily.com/biblical-illiteracy-there-are-few-verses-in-scripture-as-mishandled-as-judge-not/).

In verse 24 of John 7, our Lord Jesus also tells us ──

“’ Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.’” – John 7:24.

Yes, Christians are supposed to make righteous judgments.

What is righteous? God’s living word tells us ──

“My tongue shall speak of Your word, For all Your commandments are righteousness.” – Psalm 119:172.

So, just what are the LORD God’s commands in relation to marriage and homosexuality?

Let us turn in our Bibles to the following Scriptures ──

“So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” – Genesis 1:27.

“Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” – Genesis 2:24.

“’ You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination.” – Leviticus 18:22.

“’ If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. They shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them.’” – Leviticus 20:13.

“And Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Because of the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept. 6) But from the beginning of creation, God ‘made them male and female.’ 7) ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, 8) and the two shall become one flesh’; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9) Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.’” – Mark 10:5-9.

Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, clearly teaches us that a marriage is between a man and a woman. God’s living word tells us that for a man to have intercourse with another man is an abomination in the eyes of God!

Now, those who claim that God’s word does not condemn homosexuality are intentionally and ignorantly misreading what His word truly says. God’s word clearly prohibits and condemns homosexuality.

Let us also notice ──

“’ A woman SHALL NOT wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman’s garment, for all who do so are an abomination to the LORD your God.’” – Deuteronomy 22:5.

So, not only does God’s living eternal word warn us that homosexuality, lesbianism, beastiality, and cross-dressing are an abomination, He also tells us that those people who condone these abominable sexual immoralities are just as guilty. Instead of denouncing sickness and sin, they praise it! Let’s notice what God’s living, immutable word told the Prophet Isaiah to say to his people ──

“’ CRY ALOUD, SPARE NOT; Lift up your voice like a trumpet; Tell My people their transgression, And the house of Jacob their sins.’” – Isaiah 58:1.

The Apostle Paul, under divine inspiration, warns us ──

“For SINCE THE CREATION OF THE WORLD His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that THEY ARE WITHOUT EXCUSE, 21) because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.

22) Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23) and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man ── and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.

24) Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25) who exchanged the truth of God for THE LIE, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

26) For this reason God gave them up to VILE PASSIONS. For even their women exchanged the natural use for WHAT IS AGAINST NATURE. 27) Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust FOR ONE ANOTHER, MEN WITH MEN COMMITTING WHAT IS SHAMEFUL, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.

28) And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a [reprobate] mind, to do those things which are not [proper]; 29) being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30) backbiters, haters of God, violent, PROUD, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31) undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 30) who, KNOWING THE RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT OF GOD, that those who practice such things are deserving of death [the second death], not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.” – Romans 1:20-32.

So, notice that not only are those who engage in homosexuality judged as deserving of death, but also those who accept or approve of their behavior.

Indeed, thoughts and actions of homosexuality can be overcome; homosexuals can change ──

“Do you know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? DO NOT BE DECEIVED. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, 10) nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, will inherit the kingdom of God.

11) And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.” – 1 Corinthians 6:9-11.

That is God’s living word──and His word is truth.

Notice this grave sexual immorality that the Apostle Paul was dealing with within the Church of God there in Corinth at one time ──

“It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and such sexual immorality as is not even named among the Gentiles ── that a man has his father’s wife! 2) And you are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he who has done this deed might be taken away from among you. 3) For I indeed, as absent in body but present in spirit, have already judged (as though I were present) him who has so done this deed. 4) In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when you are gathered together, along with my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, 5) deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.” – 1 Corinthians 5:1-5.

Let us take note that true Christians are not to tolerate nor encourage sexual immorality within the Body of Christ.

This standard for judging comes directly from God’s living word ──

“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul [the physical body] and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” – Hebrews 4:12.

True Christians are required to judge all aspects of sins and of sexual immorality righteously.

We are to “Test all things; hold fast what is good [good, in the eyes of God]. 22) ABSTAIN FROM EVERY FORM OF EVIL.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22.

Our beloved Apostle Paul also wrote ──

“Do you not know that the saints will judge the world [‘in the age to come’]? And if the world will judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest matters? 3) Do you not know that we shall judge angels? How much more, things that pertain to this life? 4) If then you have judgments concerning things pertaining to this life, do you appoint those who are least esteemed by the Church to judge? 5) I say this to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you, not even one, who will be able to judge between his brethren?” – 1 Corinthians 6:2-5.

Yet, sadly, it’s not just the plethora of Protestants──including Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran, Pentecostal, and non-denominational churches──that completely overlook God’s living word regarding homosexuality and righteous judgment. Notice this from the Associated Press and of the late Jorge Mario Bergoglio (17 December 1936 – 21 April 2025) ──

July 29, 2013: During his first airborne press conference as pope, Francis is asked about a purportedly gay priest and replies, “Who am I to judge?” His comment while flying home from World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro signaled a more conciliatory, welcoming tone for LGBTQ Catholics who long felt marginalized by the church. …

(https://apnews.com/general-news-7b465b60945f40deb3a68b3de742f84a).

Surely, one would think that the person who was called the Holy See, Vicar, and Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church of the Roman Catholic Church would know that the Holy Bible clearly condemns homosexuality──and perhaps would certainly know something about what to properly say when questioned regarding it.

Commanded Not to Judge?

Our Lord Jesus Christ has told us, “’ Judge not, that you be not judged.’” Yet just a few verses later in His ‘Sermon on the Mount,’ He says, “’ You shall know them by their fruits.’”

His first statement is clear. But the second statement implies that some kind of judgment or assessment takes place in the mind of a true Christian. What is the difference between these two statements? The answer to this question underscores one of the hardest challenges to a true servant of our Lord Jesus. It focuses on a fundamental spiritual quality of character that every begotten child of God must develop!

When our Lord Jesus tells us, “’ Judge not, that you be not judged.’” – Matthew 7:1, He obviously is referring to the condemnation or pronouncement of guilt. It is plain in the verses that follow that no one is capable of such judgment because we are all blinded to some degree by our own shortcomings.

So, regardless of our accomplishments in this life, no one has the right to condemn another person (except, of course, our duly appointed judges (cf. Exodus 18:13-27; Romans 13:1-2). Indeed, our Lord Jesus Himself did not come to judge (to krinō) ── “’ For God did not send His Son into the world to CONDEMN [again, the word krinō] the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.’” – John 3:17. This word condemn in this verse is derived from the same Greek word, krinō, meaning “to judge, to pass judgment on, condemn in a legal sense.” 1

Now, there are several reasons why we are not to sit in condemnation of another. One IMPORTANT reason is expounded upon by the Apostle Paul in Romans 2 ──

“Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge [same Greek word, krinō] another you CONDEMN YOURSELF; for you who judge practice the same things. 2) But we know that THE JUDGMENT OF GOD is according to truth against those who practice such things. 3) And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God?” – Romans 2:1-3.

Those very words, “judge,” are the same term for condemn. Same Greek word as was spoken by our Lord Jesus in Matthew 7:1.

And as the apostle discusses this vital subject, he adds, “Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?” – vs. 4.

In direct connection with what our beloved Apostle Peter wrote ──

“The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:9.

Leads You to Repentance

It is a natural reaction for us to come to a quick accusation and judgment of another when we witness them doing wrong, all the while blinded by our shortcomings. My father used to tell me, “Don’t do as I do, do as I say.” But, as I’ve said before, when we point a finger at another ── three fingers are pointing back at ourselves. We fail to remember that God Almighty is aware of all and has chosen not to intervene at this moment in time ── during this present evil age. He is literally blessing all people with His goodness, which could lead people to repentance.

Notice that the LORD God is giving people space to repent. Our Lord Jesus, addressing His Church there in ancient Thyatira, spoke of them allowing “ …’ that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols.’” He goes on and says that He gave her “…’ time to repent of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent.’” – Revelation 2:20-21.

This applied/applies not just to her, but to all people: ‘time to repent.’

Brethren ── and I would like to mention an important article I published, “You’re Not Welcome!” concerning an experience at a Church of God once during the Feast of Tabernacles 2020 ── it is not our obligation to condemn a brother or a sister in Christ. In so doing, we might be invading that space to repent that the LORD God is placing upon that individual to repent of their sins. Besides that, our Lord Jesus Christ Himself has told us that it’s ‘easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God’ – Matthew 19:24; Mark 10:25; Luke 18:24. Every single one of us has some type of beam lodged in our eye that prevents us from seeing clearly.

So, a great number of reasons could be listed as to why we shouldn’t condemn another. God’s living word is clear. Yet, true Christians do have an obligation to use our minds with Wisdom and develop spiritual discernment ── develop righteous judgment.

Apostle ── and if you are speaking of Jesus’ apostles, it is appropriate and respectful to use “apostle” as a title before their names; they have earned that title! ── Paul wrote, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2) And DO NOT be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” – Romans 12:1-2.

This absolutely requires constant prayer, Bible study, contemplation and meditation, as well as the study of this world. The Apostle Paul found people of this mindset when he visited ancient Berea ──

“These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.” – Acts 17:11.

Notice the Bereans were not jeering, sneering, or judging. Rather, they received the word “with all readiness.” They were open-minded to all that he was presenting to them. Then they went daily to the Scriptures to see if everything spoken was in accordance with the living word of God. They obviously sought to follow the Apostle Paul as he followed Christ Jesus (1 Corinthians 11:1).

Indeed, the LORD God is the Judge of all. But we ── in the Body of Christ ── must and should use spiritual discernment to keep our individual selves close to God.

Apostle Peter admonishes us, “But THE END OF ALL THINGS IS AT HAND; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. 8) And above all things have fervent love for one another, for ‘love will cover a multitude of sins.’” – 1 Peter 4:7-8.

We must and should spiritually discern right from wrong ── as defined by the Eternal One ── to allow for space for others to repent, to have fervent love for our brethren, and to have full faith that the LORD is aware of their shortcomings ── again, it’s one of the hardest challenges to a true servant of our Lord Jesus in this present evil age. □

1 Strong, J., LL.D., S.T.D., #2919 krinō – The Strongest Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, Zondervan, © 2001, pp. 1623.

Building the Character of a Ruler!

by Leonard V Johnson

Standing at the pinnacle of the United States of America is a person of strong CHARACTER. A man or woman that the citizens of our great nation believe has the “keys” that will make possible SUCCESS and GREAT LEADERSHIP! 

Throughout mankind’s history, countless men and women of great ability, intelligence, personality, and training never reached what one would call the pinnacle of success in life. 

Why?

Well, possibly because of timing, chance, varying circumstances, or God’s will. Or, and this is what we’re talking about today, they had a lack of any real CHARACTER!

Surely, you’ve heard of a woman who drives a city bus for a living, having been offered ── time and time again ── the position of dispatcher, allowing her to sit in an office behind a desk instead of driving all day up and down US19? Refusing to accept that higher position, all because she doesn’t like fluorescent bulbs, or she doesn’t want to be “playing” for the opposing team. Is it a lack of any real character? No. Sadly, she is selling herself short at job advancement, stemming from a lack of self-confidence, fear of change, and a lack of keeping her eyes on a clear career goal. 

What Is Your Ultimate Goal? 

As I was talking about in my latest Personal From… A Personal Encounter with a Socialist: It’s Essential to Have the Right Goal. Because any intelligent and thinking person surely wants to be a success in life. However, so many people have differing opinions on the definition of “success.” The Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary gives us the definition of success ──

suc▪cess \sək-‘ses\ n [L successus, fr. succedere] (1537) 1 obs : OUTCOME, RESULT 2 a : degree or measure of succeeding b : favorable or desired outcome; also : the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence 3 : one that succeeds. 1

Yet so many people have come to the end of their life not truly feeling that they had reached their “favorable or desired outcome.” Perhaps, like most people, you have been taught that, when it comes to Christianity, you get your mind in gear, think sentimental and religious thoughts, go to a church on a Sunday, listen to the preacher read the Bible, hope to “get saved” because you’re “doing a commendable” thing, and that when you die you “go to heaven” and float on a white puffy cloud for all eternity. Maybe you are taught that there is really nothing else you have to do except “accept Christ.” Nothing religiously you have to accomplish except just “try and be the best person you can be.”

Nonsense!

The great and awesome God [the Elohim, the family of God ── which at this time consists of God our Father and God His Son and our Savior] says in your Holy Bible that true Christians are in training to be future LEADERS in God’s kingdom! We, brethren, are training to help CO-RULE this Earth with, and under the authority of, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!  

Our Lord Jesus said to His disciples, “’ And I bestow upon you a kingdom, just as My Father bestowed one upon Me, 30) that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.’” – Luke 22:29-30. 

In His parable of the pounds, our Lord Jesus teaches us that those who “overcome” the most──of course, our old human nature remains, and we continue to make decisions whether to yield to the works of the flesh, or to resist them by yielding to our new nature, GOD’S NATURE WITHIN US, led by the glorious Spirit of God ── we must use our strengths and our abilities and yield ourselves to God, we will be given a CO-RULERSHIP POSITION. Our Lord Jesus says to us, having overcome, “’ Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities.’” – Luke 19:17. Others who grew and developed spiritually, having used their physical talents in God’s Way and according to His will, will be given authority over five cities, since they overcame only half as much. 

Our Lord Jesus promises us the greatest of good news ──

“’ And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations ── 27) ‘He shall rule them with a rod of iron; …’” – Revelation 2:26, 27. See also Revelation 5:10.

The person who “overcomes,” who DISCIPLINES THEMSELVES and DEVELOPS RIGHTEOUS CHARACTER, is the one whom the LORD God can use as an instrument under our Lord Jesus to help co-rule the Earth in His kingdom. Now, the LORD God can add mental ability and strength by and through the Holy Spirit. But Godly character cannot just be manufactured by fiat──it is something that we must be willing to develop now as FREE MORAL AGENTS under the LORD God. 

Here are seven “keys” to help you build the type of character needed to be the kind of RULER that the LORD God will use and bless. 

• I) Humility and Fear of God 

Let’s speak of today’s news ── Nicolás Maduro. The unrecognized President of Venezuela, whom some call the De facto president. He was (until the pre-dawn hours of 3 January 2026) the dictator of a vast drug trafficking operation and a narco-terrorist. He blatantly abused his power, using it to corrupt state institutions, turning them into tools for drug trafficking, which included selling diplomatic passports to the drug traffickers and facilitating drug flights under diplomatic cover. Amongst a whole host of evil and other vile things. In true dictator fashion, he is not a likable guy. And he certainly was not humble, nor did he fear God.

Another example is Joe Biden, Jr. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 1972, Biden was reelected in 1978, 1984, 1990, 1996, 2002, and 2008. Although he had been in politics for over 50 years, Biden, under his watch as Commander in Chief, allowed some ── and, of course, the numbers vary considerably ── a record net of 8.3 million illegal and unvetted immigrants into the US, which was tantamount to treason. His lust for ultimate power blinding his eyes to the moral way of political life. And so, he was “overthrown” ── our government is now in the hands of President Donald J. Trump!

Joe Biden, Jr., claiming to be a Catholic, certainly was not humble, nor did he fear God.

Both of these fallen rulers can be noted for their vanity and pride when they were in power. One preening across the floor, and one shuffling. They lacked any real humility or any real fear of the true God of the Holy Bible!

Indeed, to have a lasting, prosperous, and good leadership legacy, any ruler or leader MUST properly learn the lesson of humility. God’s living word says ──    

“When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom.” – Proverbs 11:2.

“Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.” – Proverbs 16:18.

And just the opposite, God’s living word tells us ──   

“’ The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.’” – Proverbs 9:10.

A person who comes to have a deep awe and respect for the CREATOR OF ALL THINGS is beginning to acquire the basis for real wisdom and understanding. For that person will come to base all of their decisions, policies, and programs on THE ULTIMATE REALITY! 

As the LORD God says, to know the Holy One is understanding, and the ruler or leader will rightly base their thinking and their judgment upon God’s holy and righteous Law. And it’s God’s Law──summed up with the Ten Commandments. It will help keep you properly HUMBLED! As does the keeping and celebrating of the Day of Atonement! It certainly will help you stay focused on the fact that we are but minuscule compared to the vastness of the universe. It will certainly cause you to quit “playing God” and wake up to reality.

We Are to be a Servant 

Our Lord Jesus says to us, as He said then, and as He says now ──

“’ And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.’” – Matthew 23:12.

He showed us by His example that one who surrenders to the will of God, who humbles themselves and thinks of only being a servant to God and to our fellowman ── that person would be blessed, used as an instrument in the hands of the CREATOR OF ALL THINGS. 

The Apostle Paul wrote, under divine inspiration ──

“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6) who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7) but made Himself of no reputation [or, rather “emptied Himself”], taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.” – Philippians 2:5-7. 

Sadly, too few properly understand this tremendous and important example of the willingness of our Savior “emptying Himself” of His divine power and glory to die for all humanity. As we come ever-nearer to the end of this present evil age, all the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders of armies, the mighty men, every commoner, will come to know, grasp, and understand that because of their unwillingness to humble themselves before the LORD God, they will have to hide themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains, crying out, ‘Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb!’ Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, has QUALIFIED not only as our High Priest but also as the glorious King of kings and Lord of lords, to rule over all nations! 

Brethren, even in these man-made societies, the LORD God’s living spiritual principles that we are to live by are in full operation. Those rulers and or leaders who yield and give in to vanity and pride soon “fall” into a mere footnote of world history. But those who rule morally will leave a good legacy.

• II) God’s Standard of Right & Wrong      

In 2013, Edward Snowden, an American-born former National Security Agency (NSA) intelligence contractor, became a turncoat. He came to reveal thousands of classified NSA documents to journalists concerning numerous global surveillance programs, many run by the NSA and the Five Eyes. Was he a Privacy Hero or a Dangerous Traitor? I often remind my wife that everyone must take a side. It’s a subject that goes to the very root core of American society and its foundation.

Was it “right” ── did Edward Snowden act from a sense of public good? And, even if he was legally culpable, was he ethically culpable? The Attorney General of the United States at the time, Eric Holder, did not find Snowden’s rationale convincing. Holder stated, “He broke the law. He caused harm to our national security, and I think that he has to be held accountable for his actions.” And this, personally, is my belief. To me, he is a traitor of the United States of America. 

Under US law, intelligence employees have their own system to report activity they believe violates the law or is unethical. Employees are instructed to report wrongdoing to Congress, or up their chain of command, to the Director of National Intelligence, or to their agency’s inspector general. 2  

God’s perspective on treachery presents DIRE WARNINGS about such behavior ──

“For it is not an enemy who reproaches me; Then I could bear it. Nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me; then I could hide from him. 13) But it was you, a man my equal, My companion and my acquaintance.” – Psalm 55:12-13. 

“A talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter.” – Proverbs 11:13. 

What or who constitutes what is “right”? And what does the LORD God mean by “wrong”? 

The truth to these questions, of course, presents a major challenge to every one of this world’s societies! Modern “progressive” educators, psychologists, and even many a religious minister say that there is no absolute value in what is “right” and what is “wrong” ── that it is all subjective. Most teach that truth is subjective, based on personal beliefs, experiences, and emotions ── that one man’s truth might be another man’s untruth, lie, falsehood, or fallacy. Kind of like: one man’s garbage is another man’s treasure.

God’s Living Word is Specific ── Not Subjective

The CREATOR OF ALL THINGS says to us ──  

“There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.” – Proverbs 14:12.

Indeed. The way that “seems” right to our human reasoning leads to our second death.

All of mankind needs to learn that there is not a plethora of gods throughout the universe ── a god for this nation, and another for that nation ── but rather that there is a great GOD who has set the standard for what is “right” and what is “wrong.” And this great almighty GOD has not left it up to mankind to decide for themselves what is right, but has called ‘heaven and earth as witnesses today against us, that He has set before us life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life!’ – cf. Deuteronomy 30:19.

The LORD God has never ever said, “You can worship Me according to the dictates of your own conscience.” Or, “You can worship Me in the church of your own choosing.” Or, “All you have to do is be the best person you can be ── and you’ll make it!” 

So, what is the LORD God’s Way? What is God’s character? What is God’s love? 

“For this is the love of God, that we KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS. And His commandments are not burdensome.” – 1 John 5:3.

From the very first book of God’s living word to the last book, we see that God’s TEN COMMANDMENTS is a way of life. He has commanded His Law to be kept for mankind’s own good, to guide us in developing the very nature and character of God.

Truly, truly, if all mankind had God’s divine character, there would be no wars, no murders, no robberies, no lies, no disobedience to parents, no lust, vanity, or wrong pride. 

The LORD God’s definition of “right” is KEEPING HIS COMMANDMENTS! But, again, what does the LORD God mean by “wrong”? 

“Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and SIN IS LAWLESSNESS.” – 1 John 3:4.

That is what the LORD God means by “wrong.” 

We learn that righteousness is keeping His commandments ── summed up with the Ten Commandments. And that “wrong” is the breaking of that same eternal, immutable, immovable, and inexorable spiritual Law!

• III) Practice Wise & Impartial Judgment    

Any leader of men ── whether president, vice president, prime minister, mayor or governor, or king or queen ── will certainly be watched by their citizens or subjects as to their complete and whole system of justice, their impartiality in judgment. As in America, there appears to be two separate systems of justice in our country: One for the rich and one for the poor! Back in 1994, we all saw this firsthand with the O.J. Simpson trial. As The Nation wrote in 2024, “O.J. Simpson Proved That With Enough Money You Can Get Away With Murder. The accused killer won and lost in court depending on his bank account.” 3 Nothing can harm the morale of a nation, country, or province than the discovery that the leader is a hypocrite, accepting bribes, or playing favorites.

True, wise & impartial judgment is perhaps one of the most important qualities of a great leader of men. The LORD God tells us, “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” – Proverbs 11:14. Sadly, the majority of people don’t really want proper counsel or arbitration; they want it, the famous Burger King slogan, “Have It Your Way!” They want it their own way!

A great leader of men must learn to seek and accept wise counsel on any important subject. And this great leader should always be completely fair and impartial in the decision or in the action taken. “These things also belong to the wise: It is not good to show partiality in judgment.” – Proverbs 24:23.

A powerful truth! 

So, in our own life, with our family, or business, let us learn to be impartial and fair in our assessments and judgments. GET ALL THE FACTS AVAILABLE. And, if need be, get wise counsel. Also, admit your mistakes if you are wrong. Then act upon the truth with impartiality and in all fairness, and in all mercy. 

• IV) Exercise Strength of Leadership   

One of the greatest leaders of the United States of America was President Abraham Lincoln. His leadership style was characterized by a combination of good moral clarity, empathy, resilience, and great communication. His ability to navigate a nation on the very brink of being torn asunder, and to inspire a whole generation while preserving the Union, is a testament to his extraordinary character and leadership qualities. We all should be inspired alike. His utmost commitment to principles, willingness to listen (even to opposing sides), sense of humor, empathy, and willingness to carry the huge burden upon his shoulders are key elements to his leadership. President Lincoln’s leadership qualities continue to serve as inspiration for leaders worldwide. 4

Truly, taking upon themselves the burden of great responsibility, every true and great leader must exercise this type of character. In leadership, responsibility is a cornerstone that shapes the efficacy and credibility of those at the helm.

• V) Have Great Mercy & Long-suffering  

Any leader who deals with the lives and fortunes of others needs a great deal of mercy & patience. Patience is a virtue ── the ability to patiently wait calmly in the face of adversity or frustration is a most valuable quality of character. It is a skill well worth developing; it can lead to better decision-making and personal growth.

We must also be merciful to others. 

“’ For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15) But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.’” – Matthew 6:14-15.

We are instructed in God’s living word ── 

“He who oppresses the poor [and “poor” in many facets; poor in spirit, poor in finance, poor spiritually] reproaches his Maker, But he who honors Him has mercy on the needy.” – Proverbs 14:31.

“He who follows righteousness and mercy Finds life, righteousness, and honor.” – Proverbs 21:21. 

A person with a “good heart,” a person who is compassionate enough to forgive ── and it’s important to note that Jesus’ prayer, “Father, forgive them,” does not mean that everyone was forgiven, unilaterally, unconditionally, without repentance and faith. It does mean that Jesus was willing to forgive them—forgiveness was, in fact, the reason He was on the cross. The words “Father, forgive them” show the merciful heart of God. God’s Spirit has allowed me to see His words clearly – “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. 32) And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, even as God in Christ FORGAVE YOU” – Ephesians 4:31-31.

Forgiveness – on a human level – is an act of the will. Forgiveness is not granted because a person deserves to be forgiven. No one deserves to be forgiven. Forgiveness is a deliberate act of love, mercy, and grace. Forgiveness is a decision to not hold something against another person, despite what he or she has done to you. Forgiveness is an integral part of SALVATION. “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if ANY MAN have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, SO ALSO DO YE” – Colossians 3:13; KJV.

Any great leader worth their salt must develop the capacity for mercy, forgiveness, and long-suffering.

“For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” – James 2:13.

• VI) Be Persistent & Have Self-Discipline        

Unfortunately, and I’ve mentioned this before in the likes of a personal, Personal From… Armstrong Religion, “I had and have great respect, admiration, and love for Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong and Mr. Garner Ted Armstrong. They, I knew. But these sycophants are “under the umbrella” of their name and prestige for financial gain.” And many people from the remnants of that organization don’t (or won’t) want to learn any more than they did back in 1972! Once they learned this back in the 20th century, it’s all too easy for the person to just “take it easy,” and not grow in the grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ – 2 Peter 3:18. A great leader needs to be up to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and regarding ministerial leadership, increased spiritual knowledge – Daniel 12:4.

The LORD God tells us ──

“The hand of the diligent will rule, But the lazy man will be put to forced labor.” – Proverbs 12:24.

The person who works hard at learning and growing spiritually and producing the fruit worthy of repentance, worthy of the LORD God ── that person will end up a great leader of men. But the person who says to themselves, “I don’t want to learn any more than I did in 1972, or January 16th, 1986,” is lazy and will find that their future leadership position will be taken away and given to another.

Also ── 

“He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” – Proverbs 16:32. 

Brethren, for the sake of your future leadership position ── and as a great example to others ── a great leader must learn self-discipline in what he eats, drinks, and even in how much time he may spend on recreational activities, the type of friendships he keeps, and the kind of spiritual character he is portraying to others. 

Every kingdom, every nation, or institution reflects the leader of that kingdom, nation, or institution. People tend to follow their leader. If the leader is like Emperor Nero was, so will his/her subjects be. When a U.S. state secedes from the US federal government, the majority of its citizens will as well. (Nudge, Nudge, Wink, Wink ── Minnesota, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois. New York, Oregon) 5 

• VII) Love the LORD your God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself   

Obedience to the LORD God, a sincere feeling of awe for the LORD God, and of outgoing concern for your fellowman ── what our Lord Jesus has called ‘the first and second of all the commandments’ is an absolute must in the character of anyone who will be a great leader today or in the near future. 

Our Lord Jesus has said ── 

“’ A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35) By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.’” – John 13:34-35.

And it’s not ‘just love those who love you, or those who are in your group.’ Our Lord Jesus’ life was a continual example of love and service, even to those who were His enemies. An example is our President of the United States, Donald Trump. He has met and spoken with certain heads of state and mayors, who are considered his enemies ── but he showed them love and respect.

Let us continue to build GOD’S character, and ask, and seek, and cry out, and yield ourselves to exercise His love in our lives, in our relationships, and with God Almighty! Because it is vitally important. Godly love is far from any religious platitude ── it’s not loving a person today and then hating them tomorrow. It is living, it is alive, it is abiding and moving, and active spiritually.

To be a great leader, a true servant of our fellowman, and a great leader in Christ’s kingdom to come, let us think on these things, and let us live by these things. □

Sources:

1) Webster M. Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, Incorporated, success, 1996, pp 1175.

2) Spyscape, Edward Snowden: Privacy Hero or Dangerous Traitor? Retrieved 9 January 2026.

3) Heer, J., O.J. Simpson Proved That With Enough Money You Can Get Away With Murder, The Nation, 12 April 2024.

4) Root, E., Lincoln as a Leader of Men, Teaching American History.org, 28 Aug 1920, Retrieved 10 January 2026. 

5) U.S. Department of Justice – Office of Public Affairs, Justice Department Publishes List of Sanctuary Jurisdictions, 5 August 2025.