Misunderstood

Is he strange, or just misunderstood?

Is she mean, or just misunderstood?

Are they rude, or just misunderstood?

Are you good, or just misunderstood?

Sometimes we draw conclusions about things or people without enough information.  Do you know, what you don't know?  What I mean is, do you have enough information to make an informed decision or judgement about someone?  I cannot tell you how many times my first impression of someone was way, way off.

I have negatively judged people and I have even had a positive opinion about someone only to discover that I really am not the best judge of character.  That must be why it's best not to judge a person but it's not a bad idea to judge their actions.  Judge the sin not the sinner.  There is a fine line that's for sure.
“Do not judge so that you will not be judged. 2 For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and[a]by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you. Matthew 7:1-2

Things are hardly ever what they seem, especially when you don't have the inside scoop.  When you are on the outside looking in, your ideas and opinions can be formed by your own assumptions.  And you know what "they" (whoever "they" are) say about assumption right?  When you assume, you make an ass out of you and me.  Well I personally like to say "When you assume, you make an ass out of you and umption."  (Excuse my language for the sake of making a very cliche point).  But really, don't you hate it when people expect you to assume what they want or assume what they are thinking like you must be some sort of mind reader?  I believe in verbal communication and assuming is one of my pet peeves.  I like to avoid making assumptions.  However, I know that I assume a lot w/o even realizing it.  I always say, "Don't expect anyone to assume what you expect.  Instead make it very clear by verbally communicating with them."

One thing that I always try not to do is judge someone by their appearance.  Good and evil can appear in all forms.  Evil people can appear to be good, and good people can appear to be evil.  I guess it depends on your definition of good and evil.  Not everyone would define good and evil quite the same way.

We can never really know what's on a persons mind.  They can tell you anything but that doesn't mean it's true.  However, their conversation will help you get a better understanding of who they really are.  How do they behave as a person?  What does their conversation consist of?  I have a great example.  I know someone who is always complaining and never happy.  This person is miserable all the time and doesn't really like dealing with people.  On the other hand, this person believe's in God and attends church.  They donate their time and money to charity too.  This person doesn't smile often but I have seen them show care in different ways.  What does all that really say about them?  Does it mean this person is good or bad?  Overtime I have come to realize that this person is constantly in pain and often feels unappreciated for various reasons.  I try to show them love by not judging them but showing concern for their feelings.  I believe it helps but they have a lot of unmet needs and I pray for them often.  My concern for them is genuine.  They have a good heart but they are hurting emotionally and just need someone in their life to care.

My main point is this:  We are all capable of being good and/or bad on a daily basis.  We can easily be misunderstood based on our good and/or bad actions.  God is the best judge of character and He will help you determine what you need to know and do regarding His definition of good and bad.

Are you good, or just misunderstood?  You be the judge of your own character and clothe yourself in righteousness.  That way when people judge your goodness, they won't be misunderstood.