Injured Conscience II

Is there a high tendency for a DEVOUT Christian to be judgemental and intolerant towards others on religious issues?

Hmmm... I think Yes. I used to be like that. 🖐️ I have confessed. 😀 Goodlife, you no do wel sha.. but e don pass. 🧑‍🦲 I don't intend to say that I was devout. 🙄

The Holy Ghost enrolled me on a unlearning course and uprooted that tendency during my service year, when I studied Romans 14 for my 4 episode article DO NOT JUDGE...

In the first edition (of 'Injured Conscience'), I introduced Apostle Paul's letter to the Romans: where he warned against doctrinal extremism, especially when dealing with new converts.

In the same letter, he encouraged exemplary living, to help consciences of others.

In as much as it is good to uphold the doctrines of righteousness and sanctification, we should also balance our approach with the love of God.

'Let us not put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall on his brother's way.' Rom 14:13

Paul used the example of food and the Sabbath day. Read the first edition.

On a general application, as seen in the verse above, Paul advised that we should not only consider ourselves in our choices.

Anything that would negatively affect the standing of other believers, Paul advised we should avoid.

For instance, a senior colleague at work didn't let a viral adult video remain in her phone, PARTICULARLY BECAUSE OF HER CHILDREN.

She teaches her children not to entertain filth, and she's DELIBERATE about keeping out anything that would injure thier innocent conscience!

Considering the conscience of others will also help keep you in check; but when you say 'afterall...', then you may be in error without knowing.

This way, our brethren become co-agents with the Holy Ghost to stay within the balance. 😊

For the sake of people whose lives are affected by mine, I avoid many things; I refrain from saying many things.

This is honour to God, and regard for the feelings of others.

It is beyond their feelings though, it is their conscience. Truth is, if they are misled by my careless words, or behaviour, God may hold me responsible.

Jesus said in Luke 17 (TEV)

¹Things that make people fall into sin are bound to happen, but how terrible for the one who makes them happen!

²It would be better for him if a large milestone were tied around his neck and he were thrown into the sea THAN FOR HIM TO CAUSE ONE OF THESE LITTLE ONES TO SIN.

Paul reminds us that 'Everyone of us shall give account of himself to God.' Rom 14:12b

So, friend, henceforth, let your words be seasoned with salt, so that it will minister grace, consolation, love and direction to those who hear you. 😊

Many times your actions and words will be misinterpreted, but you have to be consistent in flowing fresh water, at least, for the sake of those who look up to you. 👥

Even if this be your motivation for restraining yourself, then it is acceptable to God, and you will have preserved a generation for God.

God bless you

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