DO NOT BE A STUMBLING BLOCK
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.
It can be easy to be critical and notice flaws and inconsistencies in others. But, when we do so, we are reminded it is easy to believe an idea or thought is our own, not realizing how the enemy works to influence others through what we say. It is easy to be naïve of how the enemy can attempt to discourage God’s plan in another person’s life or make them stumble in some way through our mouths.
“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)
It can happen even when we have a personal, close relationship with God. Most people think it is obvious to spot the enemy’s traps, but the Bible describes how the enemy disguises himself.
“And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.” (2 Corinthians 11:14)
Our words could come across as just a concerned friend trying to help the other person; we might think we are only helping advise friends. Still, in reality, we can be oblivious of how the enemy is at work through our conversations to motivate someone to stumble away from God.
We may try to guide a family member, friend, or co-worker away from something that we think is not correct in their lives. Having the best of intentions in trying to encourage them in the right direction, we could unknowingly be pointing them towards our will instead of God’s plan for their lives.
“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 14:13)
How do we keep from being a stumbling block through our words? By staying in prayer and obeying God’s Word.
“He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him.” (1 John 2:10)
We need to be concerned that we do not create stumbling blocks or obstacles for others. This could be something we say or do. We must remember that “each one of us will give an account of himself to God.”
“Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes!” (Matthew 18:7)
Today, ask God to reveal if you are creating obstacles or stumbling blocks for others. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your heart and mind. In everything you do, pray and ask God’s advice before you talk to others so that it builds up God’s Kingdom.
Will you stop and get God’s advice before you advise others today?
Heavenly Father, I need You and Your Holy Spirit to lead and guide my heart and mind daily. In everything I do, I will pray and ask Your advice before I talk to others so that it builds up Your Kingdom. I do not want to offend others in any way, but only to abide in Your love and show Your love to others. I will stay in prayer and obey Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DO YOU NEED PRAYER?
WE ARE HERE
TO PRAY WITH YOU
What verse brings you the most encouragement and comfort? Share yours on our Facebook page.
Ask The Holy Spirit To Guide Your Heart And Mind. In Everything You Do, Pray And Ask God’s Advice Before You Talk To Others So That It Builds Up God’s Kingdom.
Do you like our devotions? We reach over 80,000 people a day with our devotions.
HELP US
REACH THE NEXT PERSON WITH THE GRACE AND TRUTH OF THE BIBLE.
Even the smallest donation helps reach people around the world with the life-changing wisdom of the Bible.
E-PRAYER REQUESTS
WE'RE LISTENING
We believe in the power of prayer and the difference that it can make in your life.