We've been looking at ways to be useful for God's glory. Today's verses highlight an issue I know we've all seen, if not actually been a part of.
Romans 14:13, 19
13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
We are a useful servant when we desire to do everything for the good of others, to "build up" (edify) others. Perhaps you know of something that offends someone, but it does not offend you. Here's an example of what I mean: There are some people who are offended by women wearing pants; there are some people who have no issue whatsoever with women wearing pants. One way to be a useful servant would be to avoid offending someone who has an issue with this by not wearing pants when you know these people will be present. You may be thinking, "But I have every right to wear pants if I want to! They shouldn't be able to tell me what to do!" Ah - but remember, the goal of a useful servant is to build up others - not to serve self. Does it cost you anything to avoid the conflict and thereby avoid offending your brother or sister in Christ? No. But it will go a long way in making "peace" as verse 19 encourages us to do.
This is just one example; I know you will think of others. The point is that the useful servant has a heart for others first, always striving to please the Lord. You may have a different opinon on something, but your opinion ought not to be so important to you that you are willing to proclaim it at the cost of alienating the people around you. Take a stand on doctrinal issues, yes. Take a stand against sin, yes. But in areas of liberty, always defer to your brother/sister in Christ.
Galatians 5:13
For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. (emphasis mine)
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