Stumble
I remember growing up how carefully I watched my parents, grandparents, and other strong Christians. I watched their responses. I noticed when they got angry. I watched their words when they were angry. I watched how they lived out their faith in their everyday lives. They were not perfect, but they were pursuing a Christ-like life.
When I was in my first year of Bible College studying for ministry, my faith became my own. I believed in God for myself. I knew if my parents, grandparents, and others who influenced me growing up denounced their faith, I would still believe.
My private faith is lived out publicly in the way I interact with people. My faith is lived out by the choices I make. My words and actions should be in alignment.
Paul reminds the church at Corinth that he and his team wants to be an example of following Jesus. Check this out….
3 We live in such a way that no one will stumble because of us, and no one will find fault with our ministry. (2 Corinthians 6:3 NLT)
I’m sure that those who know me very well, realize that I’m certainly not perfect. I have probably handled a situation incorrectly and hurt someone else. I may appear to “have it all together”, but I assure you that I don’t. I remember hearing from preachers and teachers over the years when they would speak about rules, customs, and opinions that they had from their walk with God. They would often teach as if the Word of God agreed with their opinions and ideas. I decided years ago to reach the Word for myself and seek God’s face. I wanted to learn from Him and not the opinions and convictions of others.
I want to live out my faith in a very real way. I don’t want to be plastic or fake with my faith in God. The freedoms that I have are in no way meant to distract from walking in obedience to Him and His Word.
Pressing On!
Dwayne