PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Luke 17:1-3
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come…” (Luke 17:1)
Guaranteed, we will face obstacles, challenges and temptations in life.
Playing the victim will not help us, because we always will be.
As Jesus followers we ought to always be on guard against Satan’s schemes.
We also have to be aware that they can come through people close to us.
“Woe to anyone through whom they come.” (Luke 17:1)
We also need to be on guard for ways we cause others to stumble.
Losing my temper, saying hurtful things, using others for my own gain.
As Jesus followers we ought to be aware of how our actions or words affect others.
It is a serious thing to mess someone else up; treat others with care!
“If your brother or sister sins against you…” (Luke 17:3)
We shouldn’t be passive when others hurt us, nor should they if we hurt them.
Rebuke them gently, in a way that does not cause them to stumble.
As Jesus followers we may speak the truth, but always in love.
Love, gentleness and blessing can help them repent, and restore your relationship.
PRAYER
Lord, relationships are hard, and tensions and hurts are bound to come. Help me to pay attention to how I relate to others, and how they relate to me, so that Satan will not cause us to stumble.
I need to be concerned about my neighbour – and I must not take advantage. Confronting if someone wrongs you – is part of learning – part of constraining. Letting it go could embolden them to do more. Lord help me to care for my neighbour especially the ones that I don’t care for!
Stepping stone or a stumbling block?
In all that I do I need to show/live the love of God. As far as it depends upon me I need to live at peace with all mankind. I must be an instrument of His peace – a peacemaker.
Make me a servant
Humble and meek
Lord let me lift up
Those who are weak
And may the prayer
Of my heart always be
Make me a servant
Make me a servant
Make me a servant today