| A close second to comparing, is controlling. Often controllers are steeped in 'religiosity.' Their modus operandi is manipulation, hints and veiled threats. They're not big on grace because they 'think [they] know it all' (Romans 12:16 TLB). Do you see any of these traits in yourself? Think how much happier you'd be if you weren't trying to control people and outcomes. Dennis Leonard writes, 'Give your loved ones the dignity of making their own mistakes and learning from them. If you're always getting into someone else's business, you're not only going to burn out, you're hindering God from working in their lives...They belong to Him not you!'
Dealing with controversy over Jewish food laws, Paul writes, 'Those who feel free to eat must not look down on those who don't. And those who don't...must not condemn those who do, for God has accepted them' (Romans 14:3 NLT). Because you don't feel at liberty to do something, don't condemn those who do. Having strong opinions doesn't sanction you to impose them on others. Even good things can be abused. William Barclay talks about 'making a tyranny of the Sabbath, surrounding it with a jungle of rules, regulations and prohibitions.' Ask yourself if your attitude is likely to cause peace or strife. Growing in grace means building 'each other up' (Romans 14:19 NLT), not flaunting your liberty before those who don't share your convictions. Paul says, 'Let each [man] be fully convinced in his own mind' (Romans 14:6 NKJV). There are times when you need to humbly and prayerfully 'press on, regardless.'
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