SCRIPTURE: Luke 17:1-3
We live in a broken, messed up world.
Our own hearts and lives are broken and messed.
Jesus affirms that troubles along the way are bound to come.
But don’t be the one that trips up or traps others on their way.
If by my actions someone else’s life is ruined, I will one day experience the consequences.
The guilt and regret will be heavier than a millstone, dragging me down to despair.
Jesus is stressing – using this dramatic example – how horrible it is to mess someone’s life up.
Think of an child abuser, a drug dealer, a business owner whose company devastates the environment or it’s workers, a government whose policies lead to the death and suffering of it’s citizens.
I may not fit into these extreme categories, but my own life and actions will produce a certain regret too.
A day of regret WILL COME, and the realization and burden will be worse than a millstone on the neck.
So watch yourself, pay attention to what you do, and how it affects others.
My selfishness, even in it’s small forms, can cause a lot of damage.
I am saved by grace, but the very grace that saves me helps me to see myself better.
If I am not watching myself – with God’s help – I am ignoring the very grace I have received.
Of course I will make mistakes, and even when I try not to hurt people, I will.
But Jesus’ warning is ‘so watch yourselves’.
All that He asks is that we try, with His help; He will grace the results.
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, I want to help and heal, not hurt and hinder! Thank You for Your forgiveness, and Your Spirit. With Your mercy and help, may my regret be nothing more than a feather around my neck.