A Banana Peel in the Road

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do,

do it all for the glory of God.

Do not cause anyone to stumble…

I Corinthians 10:31-32

This morning on my walk, I passed a banana peel lying in the road not far from the curb. My first thought was, Someone is going to step on that banana peel and slip. I immediately thought of scripture passages that urge believers to refrain from stumbling others. It wasn’t until later that it hit me, I should have picked up that banana peel or at least moved it.

Our verse for today urges us not to cause anyone to stumble. And so, as a believer, I must constantly be mindful of what I do and say. As a wife I must guard my words so that I do not stir up anger in my husband. As a mother, I must seek to be a godly example in my priorities, pleasures, and pursuits, so that I do not stumble my children. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ (I Corinthians 10:33-11:1).

As a believer, I must guard what I post or “like” on Facebook, being careful that I connect myself only to what is pure, unprejudiced, and non-judgmental. Therefore, let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way (Romans 14:13).

As I have thought about stumbling, these questions have come to mind: What rights am I demanding that just might lead another person to spiritual confusion, sin, or even disbelief? Are my words or actions causing others to think I am judging them? How can I boldly proclaim truth in a loving, less offensive way?

I think I will take another walk and pick up that banana peel!

Lord, give me strength and discipline to remove practices that might cause others to stumble.

Jan Burkhart