13 So stop judging each other. Instead, this is what you should decide: never put a stumbling block or obstacle in the way of your brother or sister.
Reflection
Methodism’s founder, John Wesley, developed “Three Simple Rules” for Christian’s thriving to live a life closer to God. In sentiment, they truly are simple, but in practice, they are things that we often spend our whole life struggling with. Over the next three days, we will look at each of these three rules beginning with Rule #1: Do No Harm.
That’s the hope, right?! Of course we don’t want to harm others, but let’s be real, we do so all the time even if totally accidently. Maybe we didn’t invite someone to a get-together, maybe we said something critical to them, maybe there was a complete misunderstanding where feelings got hurt, maybe there’s a family member or friend we’re very short-tempered with.
In today’s text, Paul is writing about just this sort of thought. If we’re starting our spiritual development with trying to do no harm, then we need to actively work on stopping our judgement of others and not putting stumbling blocks in the way of our neighbors. There are many, many things to learn and strive towards on our spiritual journeys, but according the Wesley, the best place to start is to try to do no harm.
by Rachel Callender
For Pondering & Prayer
When you hear “do no harm” what comes to mind for you? Is there an area where this is especially difficult for you? What’s one thing you can do today to come closer to a life where you “do no harm”?
Prayer: Dear Lord, we thrive for a life where we do no harm to anyone ever, not with our words or actions. We lament where we have fallen short and ask for your grace and guidance as we try to follow what could be a simple rule. Amen.
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