Sept 4 Devotion: Stumblingblock

Romans 14:13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.

         It is interesting that the Bible word “stumblingblock” is defined as an object that is in the way that will cause someone to trip over it. Have you heard the saying, “stub your toe”? The idea of a stub is at the root of this word. The simplest way to define it may be the most descriptive. A “stumblingblock” is a block you stumble over. This may not seem to be a big deal, but it is one of the worst things that a child of God can be. To be a “stumblingblock” is to hinder someone from coming to Christ, to hinder someone from growing in Christ, or to hinder someone in their walk with Christ. We are to be witnesses, edifiers, and encouragers; not “stumblingblocks”. Does someone need to avoid you to get to Christ? Do they need to avoid you to grow in Christ? Do they need to avoid you if they are going to walk with Christ? These are sobering questions.

         In the context of this word, “stumblingblock”, we see a problem with being judgmental. The point is that instead of looking to point out the faults in others, we should make sure that our attitudes and actions are not a hindrance to others. Instead of looking for faults in those around us, we should be looking in the mirror (the mirror of God’s word) to be sure we are not someone’s problem. If people are struggling, then stumblingblocks will help them to fall. What a sad commentary it is for a Christian to be defined as a hindrance. We need to be a blessing to the brethren, not a hindrance.

Ephesians 5:15-16

15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,

16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

1 Corinthians 8:9-13

9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.

10 For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols;

11 And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died?

12 But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ.

13 Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.

Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

In Christ’s Service,

Bro. Adrian Moore

2 Cor. 4:5