June 2: Don’t Cause Others to Stumble
(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
We all have a tendency to determine what is right and wrong in our own minds. When it comes to clear topics in the Scriptures – like the command to love God and love others – we would all say that’s a good and right thing to do. But sometimes we determine other things are wrong even if they may not be.
Paul deals with this tension in Romans 14. As he wrestles with this tension, he’s sure to say that the one wrong thing we can do is to condemn or look down on another Christian for something they’ve done that may not actually be wrong. Some of the examples he uses include (1) Eating anything vs. eating only vegetables, (2) Thinking one day is holier than another day, (3) Drinking wine verses not drinking wine.
What’s the solution presented? The NLT Life Application Study Bible notes, “Everything we do affects others, and we have to think of them constantly. God created us to be interdependent, not independent. We who are strong in our faith must, without pride or condescension, treat others with love, patience, and self-restraint.”
READING & JOURNALING:
How regularly do you find yourself condemning or judging other Christians for things that may go against your personal convictions, but may not be considered wrong by God?
What sticks out to you most from Romans 14?
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I confess that it’s sometimes easy for me to look at others’ actions or behaviors and have judgmental thoughts towards them, even when their actions aren’t necessarily wrong. Help me to remember that others may have a personal perspective or conviction a little different from my own, but that I can be united with them simply due to our faith in You. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)
The F260 is a Scripture Reading Plan designed to read through the foundational passages of the Bible through a year (September 2019 – August 2020). It is a separate reading from the daily devotional but is included for those who would like to engage with the Scriptures on a deeper level throughout the year.
Read: Luke 24
Note: Are you looking for a Study Bible to help you engage with the Scriptures at a deeper level? If so, click here for some recommendations.
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