"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
On March 21, Sports Headlines read, "Molly Huddle Scores a Record and a Win, With a Dose of Controversy. At the NYC Half, she ran an American record for a women-only half marathon, but did she obstruct her competitor at the finish line?" To onlookers it seemed as if Huddle might have extended her left arm out to the side as if to physically block fellow runner, Joyce Chepkirui, who she beat by a mere 0.08 seconds. Both runners later agreed that no matter how it appeared, Huddle did not put any "obstacle or stumbling block" in Chepkirui's way. Joyce even said, "I'm happy for my friend."
The bible also talks of things that you and I could do to obstruct someone's finish or walk with Christ when it warns us to, "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." Paul was urging converted Jews and Gentiles to be sensitive to anything that might cause a weaker brother or sister to enter into sin. For example, "One person's faith allows them to eat anything, but another, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them." (v.2,3).
So whether we are weak or strong in our faith (and we all have strong and weak areas), we should always be sensitive to the needs' of others. Stephen Altrogge sums it up like this, "We are free to enjoy whatever scripture does not forbid. However, our freedom must always be wrapped in concern and care for others. If our freedom actually leads someone else to violate their conscience then we have become a stumbling block. So let’s eat and drink and not eat and drink for the glory of God."
Heavenly Father, thank you for the many blessings you give us every day, especially for the gift of today. May we use this day to do your will and to bring others closer to you. Please help us to continually monitor our own behavior that we would never be a stumbling block to one of our brothers or sisters. And in everything we do or don't do, may our actions bring you glory. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
To Him be glory - Christ for the Nations
http://www.runnersworld.com/elite-runners/molly-huddle-scores-a-record-and-a-win-with-a-dose-of-controversy
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