The Two Hikers
An illustration on judgment.
Therefore, each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore we must not pass judgment on one another, but rather determine never to place an obstacle or a trap before a brother or sister. —Romans 14:12-13
Imagine a popular trail that leads to a beautiful summit. Two hikers, Leah and Sam, set out on the same day.
Leah walks at a steady, moderate pace, stopping frequently to admire wildflowers, take photos, and chat with fellow hikers.
Sam hikes fast, pushing ahead, focused on reaching the top quickly. He often glances back and thinks, “Why is she lagging? She’s slowing everyone down.”
Mid‑way, a sudden rockslide blocks the path. The trail is now narrow, and the only safe way forward is a side route that requires patience, careful footing, and teamwork.
Leah, accustomed to moving slowly and observing her surroundings, easily navigates the detour, helping others keep their balance. Sam, used to speed, becomes frustrated, slips, and nearly falls. He realizes that his judgment of Leah’s slower pace had blinded him to the very skills she now needs to get everyone safely to the summit.
When they finally reach the top, the view is spectacular—but the real reward is the realization that each hiking style contributed to the group’s safety. Sam learns that judging Leah’s pace was pointless; instead, he thanks her for the calm presence that saved the day.
Just as the trail demanded both speed and caution, the body of Christ needs both “fast‑track” zeal and “slow‑track” patience. When we judge another’s “pace,” we miss the God‑given contribution they bring to the journey.
Judgment is a shortcut that bypasses the richness of God’s design for the church. Like the hikers on a treacherous trail, we each carry unique gifts—some move quickly, some move deliberately. When we stop judging and start looking for the good God is doing through each person, we become a safer, stronger, and more beautiful journey toward the summit of His glory.
In his commentary, J. Vernon McGee gave these thoughts on today’s passage: “My friend, you and I need to recognize that we have to give an account of ourselves to Him. I’ll be honest with you, that disturbs me a little. I am wondering how I am going to tell Him about certain things. So I can’t sit in judgment upon you; I’m worried about Vernon McGee.”
When a judgmental impulse arises, pause, take three breaths, and silently repeat, “Only God judges.” Then, convert the judgment into a curiosity: “What might God be teaching me through this person?”