Watch What You Do

"When you disturb the weak conscience of your brothers and sin against them, you sin against Christ Himself." - 1st Corinthians 8:12

We all make mistakes, but the older we get, the more we need to realize that our mistakes not only affect us, but also those who watch us. What we are missing today are good role models, those that might make a mistake, but make sure they rectify their behavior and show those watching them how they should act. I was just telling someone that in the case of Jamie Lynn Spears and her pregnancy, everyone points to her mom as being at fault, but I'm sure that growing up, Jamie looked up to her big sister more than anyone else. It's great to be young and have fun, but don't let your mistakes cost someone else to sin against God. You might have sons or daughters, little brothers or sisters, or neices and nephews who look up to you. What are you teaching them with your example? Will they grow up thinking that you taught them honesty and integrity, or will you teach them to follow in the same mistakes you've made? You might not think you affect anyone's behavior, but you do. Look at what Paul says here, when you fail to be a good example for those around you and condone the same bad examples you have, you not only carry the weight of your sin, but the weight of their sin as well. And it might not be crazy, wild behavior, you can also pass on your negative attitudes, your doubts and pessimism. Is this what you want to pass on to someone who looks up to you?

Today's Prayer:
Lord, I forget at times that I'm not alone in my actions and even when I think no one is watching, I could be passing on my sins and negative behaviors to someone else. Oh God, keep my eyes open so that I can only pass on a good example so that no one sins because of me, and please help me so that I myself can always do right by You. In Your Name we pray, amen.