2 Corinthians chapter 6 verse 3 (NIV)
We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited.
I would be heartbroken if any action or behaviour of mine was a stumbling block or hindrance to anyone thinking of following Jesus. We need to be so aware of our behaviour so that as much as is possible we don’t cause offence that could have been avoided. Sometimes we may not have done so intentionally but the damage may already be done.
When I was dealing with NHS complaints we often found that it was what my colleagues and I termed “throw away remarks” that caused the biggest offence and the person who was being complained about had no idea that there was an issue.
Sadly my own Dad was upset by something said by a church elder that caused him to stop going to church. When I was older and he told me about it, I told him not to blame God for the attitude of the individual. It was not God’s fault, but the damage had indeed been done, and I am certain the person involved would have had no idea of the hurt caused. So we need to be careful of our actions and not hinder the moving of God’s Spirit.
Dear Lord,
Help me to consider my actions and guard my tongue. Help me never to be a stumbling block in anyone else’s journey to faith. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.