So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother's way. Romans 14:12-13 (NKJV)
I vividly remember the first time 'religious liberty' affected my life. I was a young teen, spending summer vacation in Wisconsin at my grandparents, and wanting to listen to the radio on a Sunday afternoon. My cousin was playing in a baseball championship game and I was so excited that I was actually able to hear his name and share this moment. I remember lying on the bed crying after my grandma left the room. It was Sunday afternoon; the Lord's Day. They did not partake in any activity other than eating and sleeping and visiting with friends on Sunday. We were not allowed to listen; my cousin's team won.
In our walk with Christ, understand each person is accountable to Christ, not to others. We need to take a stand against activities that are contrary to scripture, but we also must be very careful not to create our own rules, and add them or make them equal to God's. Our own opinions, standards and prejudices cannot be the basis of our interpretation of God's Word, or our view of how others should be living. This is evidence of a weak faith. God alone is capable and powerful enough to lead each of His children and guide them in their walk with Him. We will each give account of our life and activities individually.
Both strong and weak Christians can cause their brothers and sisters to stumble. At times a strong Christian may appear arrogant in their way, while a weaker Christian, not as established or mature in the Word, may become defensive against the actions of the strong. Dissention and doubt set in and Satan can begin to work. Instead, recognize your own strengths and weaknesses and constantly be aware of how your actions and attitudes are affecting others. Strive to learn and seek God's intentions for your life.
Paul urges us not to judge one another. Throughout chapter 14, he proposes circumstances that cause us to evaluate our sensitivity toward those whose faith may be harmed by our actions. We cannot sacrifice our freedom in Christ in order to please those who may be trying to force their opinion on us. We need to live with the convictions we have and not those of others. When we stand before Christ, the differences will fade and we won't be concerned about what others have done.
Most importantly, follow Christ as closely as you can! Make sure your convictions are based on the flawless Word of God and not on the traditions and whims of man. There will be times when we make mistakes along the way and our actions create a stumbling block in the life of another. When we are walking closely with God and allow Him to guide us, He can use those blocks we created and turn them into stepping stones for His glory.
Heavenly Father, forgive us when we cause someone to stumble. Make us and use us to be stepping stones in the lives of others.
Janet Stutzman
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