Romans 14:13 Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way.

 Romans 14:13 Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way.

I learned a valuable lesson during my first year of teaching from a quiet, well-mannered ninth grader. In fact, this is a story I tell students each year to illustrate the correct way to respond to a teacher when the teacher is wrong. 

            I was busy, as usual, rushing around the classroom trying to get my goals accomplished before the day was over. As I passed Dan’s desk (not his real name), I said, “Dan, you have a detention for gum. You know you can’t have gum in school.” I hardly missed a step as I continued on to the front of the classroom to write down the detention. 

            Dan sat quietly and waited for an opportunity to speak with me. Later, I walked toward the back of the classroom near his desk. “Mrs. Wyrick, may I speak to you?” he asked in a soft tone.  I nodded. He said, “Mrs. Wyrick, I wasn’t chewing gum. Mr. Wilson gave me permission to have a cough drop.”

            I was embarrassed. I thanked him for his kindness and patience with me, and, of course, I quickly removed the detention from the record book. I was guilty of an assumption. I “told” him what he did wrong, rather than “asking” him if he had gum in his mouth. Although this gives a great example of how to appeal respectfully and quietly on the student’s part, it is also an example of how “not” to approach a student who appears to be disobeying.

            Not only will a question help clarify the child’s intent. It also allows him to confess with his mouth when he is wrong. Confession is good for us all when we are wrong. When we are not wrong, it is good to have an opportunity to say so. Do not get too busy to deal with negative situations properly.

Dear God, Thank you for this valuable lesson.   Remind me not to pass judgment on students when I don’t have the details of the situation.