Musick-al Note # 236
This question is perhaps asked most often by young people who are seeking guidelines for their lives but all Christians are concerned with knowing that their actions are pleasing to the living God. Usually this question is asked when we have a desire to do something that we haven’t done before and uncertainly as to its being proper conduct for ourselves is involved. Some would say simply, “If in doubt, don’t.” Yet there ought to be a better and surer way of making decisions of importance than this. I believe there is. First, seek the answer from God’s word. If God has spoken, then the answer is clear and final and the Christian’s question is settled. If the Word of God is silent on the matter then a second method of reaching a decision must be available. The Word of God can still help in that we use certain principles to ascertain the correctness or incorrectness of such actions, plans or desires. Using this method involves three questions which comprise the guidelines of right or wrong.
The first of these questions is, “Will this (act, word, place) honor and glorify God?” If it will bring honor to God, then the Christian can know that the object of his desire is pleasing in the sight of God. If it would not please God or glorify God but dishonor God, or displease God, then the Christian will avoid doing that thing.
The second question is, “Will this action help others spiritually?” If such action should cause another to stumble or be less spiritual and sin, then such ought to be avoided. Our actions ought to be designed to draw others to Christ and not hinder. The third question is, “Will this help myself to be more spiritual?” Will I be a better Christian because I do this thing or will I be less spiritual minded? While my influence on others ought to be good, my influence on myself ought to be of great importance. Therefore, I ought to avoid those things which degrade myself.
The final guideline for considering right or wrong is the motive of love. While we have liberty in Christ, love binds us to high ideals and high goals in life. Love for God and Christ will bring us under subjection to obey His will. Love for other will cause us to seek their best good. Love or self will elevate us to such a plane that we will not desecrate ourselves for selfish pleasures. “Is it right or is it wrong?” can be answered by these principles. Those who love God and His Son who died for them will seek righteousness and will act accordingly.
Gordon Musick
Musick-al Notes 