More tests before acting

We set forth several important tests in our last study. There are more tests that will help me make the best decisions.

For instance, I need to ask myself the one to whom the glory will go if I act in this way. Paul instructed the Corinthians, saying, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). He also wrote to the saints of Colosse, “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Colossians 3:17).

Jesus used salt as a simple illustration to make this very point. “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men” (Matthew 5:13).

He drove the point home using light as another illustration.

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).

I must also pay attention to my conscience and the warning signs it may give me. Paul spoke of it in his letter to the church in Rome. “But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). It likely is the reason he told the brethren in Thessalonica, “Abstain from every form of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:22). He also directed the Ephesian saints to, “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16).

We should note that conscience can lead us in the wrong direction. Paul proclaimed to the council, “Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day” (Acts 23:1). His defense before Festus and Herod Agrippa included, “Indeed, I myself thought I must do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth” (Acts 26:9).

Paul gave Timothy a fuller explanation. “Although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief” (1 Timothy 1:13).

Thankfully, he went on to give the solution, when he wrote, “This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief” (1 Timothy 1:15).

All of the tests could be summarized by asking whether I can put the kingdom of heaven first and participate in the action I am considering. Jesus told the disciples assembled on the mount, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).

This test could be restated by asking myself, “Must I forget what kingdom I am a citizen of to participate in it?” (Philippians 3:20-21). John penned some words that should cause us to pause. “And now, little children, abide in Him that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming” (1 John 2:28).

Jesus warned about his unannounced return. Then, he instructed,

“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Matthew 24:42-44).

The goal of all of these tests is to be bidden to enter heaven. Each of us should pause before acting. Briefly run through all these tests before choosing the path your life will follow.