2 It would be better for them to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around their neck than to cause one of these little ones to stumble.
Luke 17:2
Jesus is stating the literal. If our actions causes another to stumble in their faith, it is better for us to die. I'm assuming little ones are one's that are new in faith? Or could be children.
In multiple occasions throughout the bible, scripture states that we should not cause another brother to stumble. I find this command to be one of the most difficult to obey. Because my point of views on drinking or any other grey area commands, I feel like the freedom I have should be exercised. Those around me who stumble at the things I do... well tough luck because they're feeble minded. God won't judge me because I have the freedom of the gospel and I'm not guilty because the practices have no affect on me. Which goes to my next point... I also think it's wrong for ministries to tell me what not to do in front of others. God gave us freedom to choose, yet when people tell me what to do, it takes away what God already established as freed individuals... The Spirit convicts me... The passage brings love into perspective though. If i feel this way that I have freedom under the gospel and continue practicing it regardless of how others might feel, then what I do is selfish and prideful... Even 6 months back, I wouldn't hesitate to practice any of the freedoms God gives me, such as drinking. I wouldn't care about what others felt. Ultimately, its love that puts things into perspective. My love for my brother to sacrifice trivial issues (may not be trivial to others) in order to build up the kingdom. ~ sermon on "Walking in the Light"...
Jesus forgive me for being selfish. Help me to act in love and remember when I'm tempted to practice my freedom. I know certain actions aren't a sin, but when it pertains to others, help me to lift their needs higher than my needs. Help me to magnify you in all my actions.
In Jesus Name
Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment