From the desk of the Pastor

Abstain from all appearance of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:22
Suppose you, a Child of God, was at a grocery store and saw the clerk put your groceries in box labeled: “Budweiser Beer,” would you stop them? Is there anything wrong with carrying a beer box outside of a grocery store? I am sure you have already answered, “Yes, It does matter!”, or “No, that don’t make any difference.” You might feel that the what is on the inside is more important than what is printed on the outside of the box. However, there can be a danger in this innocent incident. Again, suppose someone, who is looking for an opportunity to criticize or find fault with you saw you leaving the store with a beer box. There conclusion would be that you are purchasing beer. Result? Gossip! It would have been better to avoid the appearance of evil and had them use a different source for you to carry you groceries in. Is this narrow-minded? Do you feel that you don’t care what anyone else thinks, and that your conscience is clear? However, it is really not just your conscience that matters, your testimony is just as important!
The beer box may be an extreme illustration, but if we were more careful about not giving the world an occasion to criticize, there would be less misunderstandings and gossip.
The Bible says, “Let not then your good be evil spoken of.” (Romans 14:16). Your conscience may be clear, but your testimony in danger. Let us be about guarding our testimony! God is watching and so is everyone else.
We can’t afford to live our lives haphazard;
We can’t afford to grow lukewarm or cold,
For somewhere there is someone who is watching;
Our smallest, single action they behold.—Georgia B. Adams
“Have you ever answered the question of Cain, ‘Am I my brother’s keeper?’”
 Pastor Matt