Stumbling Blocks

In our household, we have a family dinner rule: no negative comments about the food. For a long time, we struggled with someone making critical remarks about the meal, which often caused a domino effect where no one wanted to eat. For example, if one child tried their vegetables and made a negative comment, all the other kids, who are very impressionable, would suddenly not want to even try them.

There have been times when we went shopping with our daughters. Our youngest would fill her little basket with hair clips and other adorable accessories. However, it only takes a comment from one of the older girls suggesting that the items aren’t cute for our five-year-old to suddenly lose interest and no longer want the things in her cart. This time, it worked in my favor.

This concept applies similarly when we pass judgment on others within the body of Christ and our church community. We might think that criticizing the sermon, the worship, the speaker, or even a specific minister or ministry is harmless. However, these remarks can become stumbling blocks for those who hear them. They can create barriers that prevent others from experiencing God's presence.  We sow seeds of doubt and rejection in their minds. Consequently, they now approach the situation with a critical spirit instead of an open heart.

“Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” Romans 14:13