Never Impede Another
Toni Smothers
Scripture Reading: Romans 15:1-13
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Scripture Quote: Romans 14:20-21 (NIV) Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a person to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble. It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.
The self-denying principles of the Gospel teach us that we should avoid everything which may be an occasion of offense to another believer or that might cause dissention. Jesus told his disciples that things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come. We all travel a path to gradual, varying levels of maturity. It is unloving to impede another's journey by causing them indecision or confusion in their faith.
We can refrain from questionable behaviors when in their presence. We do this out of love and respect for their journey. Doubts about what should or should not be consumed as food or drink, can cause self-condemnation by disregarding those doubts. There is never a good reason to cause another undue stress. Jesus didn't teach his disciples to make legalistic arguments within the church body, but to spread the good news of salvation. As brothers and sisters in Christ we can be accommodating peace makers, encouragers and dedicated to helping others grow in their faith.
Today’s meditation: Never be a stumbling block to another’s faith.
Memory Verse: Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters. Romans 14:1 (NIV)
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