Here's your daily devotional!

If you wish to receive these free devotionals every weekday by E-mail, click the button below. Note: you'll have to log in or create your membership account first. Membership in the League is free. Join now!

Sign up to receive the Daily Devotional

“A Testimony by Example or Condemnation?”

Thoughts for Today:

A few summers ago we had guests staying with us at our vacation home in Northern Idaho. One evening we invited the pastor of our local church to join us for dinner. Our guests had purchased a nice bottle of wine and offered to share it with everyone -- but the pastor refused. He said, "No thanks, I believe as a pastor and a Christian that I shouldn't drink alcohol." As you can imagine, it created somewhat of an uncomfortable moment. Yet, there is no doubt he did the right thing.

Did our pastor friend have as much of a right to drink wine as our guests? Of course he did. However, the reason he didn't was because of his testimony. On the other hand, there are many Christians who are harsh in the way they deal with others because of legality. They say, "I don't do this and you shouldn't either!" It's too bad they don't realize their witness would have far greater impact if it wasn't so full of condemnation. When the motive is love, the approach and the response are altogether different.

Our pastor friend told everyone to go ahead and enjoy the wine even if he did not participate. We chose to save it for another occasion. Why? Because of love and conscience: "...then do not eat it, both for the sake of the one who told you and for the sake of conscience."

Questions to Ponder:

Have you been acting in love? Do you beliefs reflect legalism or faith? Do you offer others with dissimilar beliefs your testimony of example or condemnation?

View latest devotional

Sign up to receive the Daily Devotional

There's nothing like God's Word to create purpose in your life that lasts the entire day and beyond. We encourage you to Read, Carry and Share the Word of God. Pocket Devotions are sent by E-mail every weekday (Monday to Friday). On weekends we encourage you to be creative and study on your own in any area of Scripture where God leads you.

You can start from Day 1 at any time. Messages are sent automatically. Subscribe now! You may unsubscribe at any time.

About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.