The Stumble
I take care of the grass at Mom's camp up the road from my house. Since it doesn't get used much, I sometimes wait longer than I should between cuttings which causes the ditch to be a challenge as the grass grows much thicker there and sometimes chokes down the mower. I'm always careful on the first few passes to make sure I blow the grass into the ditch instead of towards the road. This keeps me from breaking someone's window or causing the road to be slick for motorcycles. The only problem is that makes it much harder for me to cut. It's difficult enough without the added clippings being thrown in the mix. It would be much easier to blow it all into the roadway without regard for anyone else. This brings to mind the question... Just because you can do something, should you?
There isn't always a clear right or wrong answer to decisions we face. However, when the consequences of our choices affect others, the outcome is that much more important.
Paul speaks about this when addressing the church at Corinth in 1 Corinthians 8:9. He says to be careful when exercising freedoms that could cause someone else to stumble. In context, this statement was referring to what the people were allowed to eat at the time. However, the verse can be applied to anything we think we have the right to do that may have an impact on others. Just because we can do something, doesn't necessarily mean we should.
Biblically, “causing someone to stumble” refers to acting in a way that would lead another person to sin or cause confusion in their faith. When facing decisions that may influence others, I pray that the Lord will give me the strength to make wise choices not only for myself but also for anyone who may be watching.
But be careful that this right of yours in no way becomes a stumbling block to the weak. -1 Corinthians 8:9
Christ In Me - Jeremy Camp
Click here to receive an email when new blog content is posted.
Comments
Post a Comment