Can I just say what GORGEOUS weather we are having! Like HELLO PEOPLE! It's beautiful! I almost forgot what the sun looked and felt like after this crazy winter we've experienced. In love!! Hope you are taking time to enjoy God stunning creation!!!
Quick thought for today!
Should we feel guilty by how someone reacts to something we've said and done? Additionally, should we be held responsible for the actions another person takes based on actions we've taken?
This is something I have been brooding over for the last week or so and I am torn between the answer NO! and YES! And! Frankly I think it can go both ways.
I've often heard the argument "You can't hold yourself responsible for what he/she did. God only holds you responsible for what YOU do!" In fact, I just used this argument with someone close to me who is going through a difficult time. And! In her situation, it works. But! I don't think this is a universal argument- as every situation varies.
"YES!" Argument
Truth is, God DOES hold us accountable for what we do and how it affects the choices others make. Let me give you an example. If you are hanging out with a friend who struggles with alcohol addiction but you still order a drink; you're placing that temptation and desire in front of your friend to consume the very thing she is fighting against. Did you physically force a drink down her throat? NO! At least, I certainly hope not; but YOU did reintroduce the problem. Now, the potential for her to drink again is increased. Is every situation the same? NO! Will every recovering alcoholic who sees beer or wine choose to drink again? NO! But! It certainly isn't helping them in their recovery. Are you responsible for their addiction? NO! But you can take a responsible role in helping them continue their healing process! Therefore, we must be considerate of our decisions and the choices we make privately or publicly. They have a greater impact than we realize.
1 Corinthians
"But you must be careful so that your freedom does not cause others with a weaker conscience to stumble."
"NO!" Argument
We are however, not responsible for every action someone takes in response to something we've said and done that was justified. Let me give you another example. You and your boyfriend have dated since you were freshmen in high school, and you're now out of college and ready to start your lives as adults. You've remained pure in your relationship; choosing to save yourselves for marriage. In fact, marriage and future plans were definitely topics on your minds. However, irreconcilable differences between you causes a fissure in the once happy relationship, and you decide to break up with your longtime beau. In his anger and hurt, he gets together with several different girls; breaking the once promised bond of celibacy you shared. About a month later, he texts you and says "I've made so many mistakes since we broke up. I've slept around and started partying. It's your fault, because I only did this to forget you. If you had just stayed with me, I wouldn't have done these things!" Are you responsible for your ex taking a turn on the wild side? NO! Should you feel guilty for making a choice you felt was best and get back together with him? BIG NO!
Reminder!!! However, despite his hurt and anger, you should still hold yourself responsible for how you react and respond. God WILL hold you accountable for the choices you make.
With this said, whether or not we are justified or gravely mistaken in the decisions we make, we are held accountable by our Heavenly Father. It's easy to say, I can't be responsible for what he or she does, and it's not my problem or business what they do. But! We should, nevertheless, strive to live our lives as a testimony of our faith and our commitment as followers of Jesus Christ. If you are ever doubtful regarding the decisions or choices you are going to make, it is probably a good idea to reconsider them before acting out on those decisions.
Reminder!!! However, despite his hurt and anger, you should still hold yourself responsible for how you react and respond. God WILL hold you accountable for the choices you make.
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With this said, whether or not we are justified or gravely mistaken in the decisions we make, we are held accountable by our Heavenly Father. It's easy to say, I can't be responsible for what he or she does, and it's not my problem or business what they do. But! We should, nevertheless, strive to live our lives as a testimony of our faith and our commitment as followers of Jesus Christ. If you are ever doubtful regarding the decisions or choices you are going to make, it is probably a good idea to reconsider them before acting out on those decisions.
Blessings for you at the start of Holy Week! Take time to prayerfully consider all you do!
Remember! You may be the first glimpse of Jesus someone sees!
Until Next Time! <3
