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Everyday Peacemaker

Peacemaker Ministries Devotional: Stumbling

by P. Brian Noble / February 8, 2021

 

 Scripture 

Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. (James 3:1–3, ESV) 

Thoughts 

In the midst of his teaching, James writes, “We all stumble in many ways.” “Stumbling” is different than a pattern of willfully disobeying God. Stumbling is a moment when our thoughts get away from us, our emotions get out of whack, and our flesh and desires take control. Willful disobedience is when we practice unrighteous behavior intentionally and with premeditation. 

Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. (1 John 3:4, ESV) 

When we practice something, we work at it; we intentionally do it over and over. If I am a musician, I practice playing my instrument. I don’t stumble into playing an instrument. I have to take the clarinet out of the case, attach the mouthpiece, and make it work. 

Application 

How have you stumbled in your speech? Have you said something hurtful that you didn’t intend to say? Did you blurt out something that was mean, unkind, or foolish? Take responsibility for those things. Don’t hide your sin in your heart. Confess it to God and to the other person. 

Prayer 

Lord, help me to be humble when I stumble. I want to confess my sins quickly to you and to the others who are involved. . . Continue praying 

Tags: devotion, Teaching, trials

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P. Brian Noble

P. Brian Noble

P. Brian Noble is an everyday guy who loves Jesus. He has been married to his best friend, Tanya, for 20 years and they have four children; they currently reside in eastern Washington. Brian has a Master of Arts in missional leadership from Northwest University. He is the Executive Director/CEO of Peacemaker Ministries. An ordained minister for the past 20+ years (3 years as a Youth Pastor, 14 years as a Senior Pastor, and 4 years as an Executive Pastor), he proclaims hope through the gospel message as the Holy Spirit empowers believers in their daily walk. He believes in the power of the Word of God to transform lives. He has been a Certified Christian Conciliator since 2008, with 1000+ hours of conflict coaching and mediation experience. His caseload has ranged from husband and wife cases, to family farm, to public schools, and even county government. Brian has taught peacemaking in local jails and even internationally in Uganda. His hope is that every Christian reconciles their differences in a way that glorifies God. His hope is that every Christian recognizes they are a Peacemaker before they try to do peacemaking. Finally, his hope is that every Christian reconciles by making authentic peace that blends justice, mercy, and humility.