Ask or Assume? How Misjudgments Impact Relationships and Faith

Is there ever enough, or is there too much? For many people, there is never enough. Most struggle to manage their finances, watching their pennies and guarding their dollars carefully. Bills keep coming, often growing larger instead of smaller. Yet, despite financial struggles, others may assume you have more than enough. The truth is, people make assumptions—and that is rarely in anyone’s best interest.

The Problem with Assumptions in Church and Everyday Life

Christians are often the worst when it comes to making assumptions about others. Why? Many people come to church, sit, listen, and leave—week after week—without much interaction. With only a few minutes of observation, quick judgments are made:

• They look sad today—something must be wrong.

• They didn’t speak to me—they must be upset.

• They sat somewhere different—are they mad at someone?

The list of assumptions goes on. These snap judgments can lead to misunderstandings, gossip, and even division within a church family.

Asking vs. Assuming: Which Builds a Stronger Community?

I have been told not to ask so many questions, but which is better—asking or assuming? If someone seems sad or overwhelmed, taking a moment to genuinely ask how they are doing could provide an opportunity to help. On the other hand, assuming something and moving on may cause us to miss a chance to support a brother or sister in Christ.

Building a True Church Family Through Communication

If a church family is truly a family, then we should practice:

✅ Talking with each other
✅ Checking in on one another
✅ Offering help when needed

Jesus set an example of open communication. At the wedding in Cana, Mary shared her concern with Him, and He responded with action. Galatians 6:10 reminds us, "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."

Stop Assuming—Start Showing You Care

We don’t need to pry into people’s personal lives, but we can take the time to talk, share, and pray with them. Instead of making assumptions, let’s actively show compassion and build stronger relationships within our faith communities.

Final Thought: A world where we ask, listen, and care will always be better than one filled with baseless assumptions.

John 7:24 (NKJV)
“Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”