Testify or Justify?

 “There are some things which I feel I might do, as far as I am concerned, which I believe I might do without suffering any personal hurt, but which I would not do for your sakes and which I dare not do for the sake of many who would take license from my example to do a great deal more than I would do…The inconsistent life of a Christian is un-labeled poison, and I am very likely to be injured by it.” (Charles Spurgeon)

For meditation: No man is perfect. Spurgeon was a cigar-smoker. This became the subject of controversy in later years. He did not regard smoking as a sin in itself, but justified his habit on the grounds that it relieved his physical pain, soothed his weary brain and helped him to sleep. However, non-smokers criticized him for setting an example which led others into a body-destroying habit. Do you eat or drink anything or do something else which could cause others to stumble? http://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/spurgeon-365-2/2013/09/30

I read the above excerpt about a week ago. I put off thinking about it. Yet, it keeps coming back into my head—like irritating reflux. I guess it’s time to get it examined.

Do I do anything that causes others to stumble? The answer is: YES. Not everything I do is wholesome. I unthinkingly participate in activities that become obstacles for others.  Like Charles Spurgeon, I should know better—yet I justify my habits.

Those who are likely to be held up as role models can influence others for better or worse. It would be similar to mixing a few drops of poison in a container of milk. Most people would assume that the milk is good for them and drink it. 

I know a young man who is trying to live according to God’s standards. Recently someone said the following about him: “His actions are his testimony to others.”

Testimony—as in providing evidence, testifying to something, being a witness.

Testify or Justify? Which one do we do?