Scripture: Romans 14 v 13:
"Let us not therefore judge one another anymore: but
judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in
his brother's way."
- No matter what lies ahead we must continue to live out
our Christian witness and grow in grace. Jesus commanded us to love one another
as He loves us.
- Jesus did not come to condemn or judge us. He came to
save us and love us. As we grow to be more like Him those should be our
beacons. Our natural man is quick to criticise and belittle others. We must discipline
our spirit to praise and uplift one another.
- Our words and actions can put stumbling blocks in front
of a sensitive person and cause them to turn away from Jesus. James calls our
tongue an unruly evil full of fire of Hell. We should not with the same mouth
praise God and curse people.
- Jesus told His disciples - who wanted to rain down fire
on a town that rejected their ministry - that their words carry power. So if
you curse a slow-moving vehicle ahead of you or an old woman shuffling through
a crossing you create a stumbling block to them that may be used against you.
- Rather pray blessings upon people who cross your path
who irritate you. You will re-educate your mind according to God's will and He
will bless you for your kindness and love to strangers and friends alike.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, fill us with Your love and kindness for people so that they can be surprised by our gentleness with them. Let Your peace flow through us to everyone. Amen.