As servants of Christ, we have a job to do and a race to run. There is nothing more embarrassing than seeing a runner slow down before crossing the finish line, assuming the race is won, only to be passed up by another runner. Likewise, it is disheartening to see someone give up too soon because the challenge is too great. Scripture has much to say to us about not letting the opinions of others stop us from doing God’s will.

1. Remind yourself daily that you are a slave of Jesus Christ, equal to every other person who serves Him. We need not struggle with identity, value, or jealousy once we accept our assignment from Him. (1^st Corinthians 4:1)

2. You have been entrusted with a mysterious treasure that belongs to someone else and He wants you to share with others. However, many do not understand how valuable the treasure is! (1^st Corinthians 4:1)

3. To be faithful and trustworthy is not an option. It is an absolute requirement for those who have received the sacred trust. (1stcorinthians 4:2)

4. We live in a day wherein we have been conditioned to believe that the court of public opinion is judge and jury when it speaks about someone or something. Notice that Paul says what people say or think about him it is very little significance. Have you allowed your spiritual race to be hindered by what people say about you? (1^st Corinthians 4:3)

5. It is critically important to recognize the various kinds of judgment mentioned in scripture so we can make good decisions. It is one thing to judge and condemn someone without sufficient knowledge of motive and heart intentions. However, believers must judge (evaluate, examine, investigate, discern) between right and wrong according to scripture.

6. The court of public opinion will continue to convict believers of being narrow minded, bigoted, and unloving. Make sure you know what scripture teaches on the hot button issues of our day, because the standards of many professing Christians are not Christian standards! Some professing Christians are more loyal to their country and political party than they are to King Jesus and His Kingdom!

7. Be careful that you do not trust your own judgment and conscience on all spiritual matters. We are very capable of deceiving ourselves into thinking we are making good judgments about every issue and our own ministry efforts. There is nothing more deceptive than the human heart. (Jeremiah 17:9) a clear conscience is wonderful, but not the assurance that settles all matters.

8. The Lord is the righteous Judge. He is coming back. He will reward those who have been faithful. Don’t quit too soon! Don’t celebrate too soon!

9. Imagine yourself hearing the words of praise for your efforts from the Lord Himself. Endure the criticism. Embrace the compliments, but don’t let either of them go to your head and heart. Keep running your race and doing your job until the Lord gives you permission to stop.

10. There are three courts that pass judgment on us, the court of public opinion, court of self-evaluation, and the judgment seat of Christ. Make sure you are prepared for the court that matters most, and whose verdict is final and without appeal. Imagine receiving praise from the Judge!