Stumbling Blocks

Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister. I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean.  If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy someone for whom Christ died. ~ Romans 14:13-15

To be a follower of Jesus means we are called to serve others and be mindful of what is good for them and to be considerate of their well being before our own.  Yes, you have been given grace to have a glass of wine with dinner, but who are you in company with?  If one of your table guests struggles with alcohol, you should put your right to a glass off to the side so that your friend does not stumble.  Our right to do something is not as important as our friend’s spiritual well-being, so put your right aside.  Most people are concerned about their own personal satisfaction and have a “me first” attitude, but as followers of Jesus, we are to put others first.  The world thinks of “me first” and we, the church, should be striving to be “we first” starting with the very family of Christ we are a part of and continuing out to our communities.  Most of us are self-absorbed (myself included), but how different our world would look if we put others before ourselves and genuinely helped people become better versions of themselves spiritually and walked humbly by their side.  I don’t ever want to be a stumbling block for someone else, so I must remember that just because something may be permissible for me, that does not mean it is for every believer, or even that it is beneficial.  The heart of a Jesus follower should always put others first no matter what the situation, or circumstance.  Be mindful of those around who are learning from you and help them grow without being a hindrance. ~ Amen