In this passage of Scripture, the apostle Paul emphatically states that he and his co-workers have continually walked in integrity, and therefore, have placed no obstacle in the way of anyone who would come to faith in Christ. He even goes so far as to insist that no one could find any fault with their ministry. Their character, conduct, and conversation would never cause a potential believer to question the trustworthiness of the Gospel. Paul and his co-laborers were certainly not perfect, but no one could claim that they preached morality, but lived in sin. They were continually clearing the path to faith in Christ by remaining above reproach in their ministry and their personal conduct.

The Living Bible translation of the above verse reads: "We try to live in such a way that no one will ever be offended or kept back from finding the Lord by the way we act, so that no one can find fault with us and blame it on the Lord." The plain truth is that we, as servants of God, have the power to attract people to the Lord, or to drive them away from Him. How we live our daily lives - and how we conduct whatever ministry God has given us - can have a direct impact on others.

Paul wrote: "Examine and test and evaluate your own selves to see whether you are holding to your faith and showing the proper fruits of it." (2 Corinthians 13:5 AMP) It is wise for us to continually examine ourselves with the help of the Holy Spirit, and to be quick to correct our course, if necessary, through confession and repentance. We can pray as David the shepherd-king did - "Examine me, Lord; put me to the test! Purify my mind and heart." (Psalm 26:2 CEB)

Right after Paul talks about his life and ministry being above reproach, he says: "In fact, in everything we do, we try to show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure suffering and hardship and trouble of every kind." (2 Corinthians 6:4 TLB) One way we can show the world that we are "true ministers of God" is to remain full of faith and patience in times of "suffering and hardship." When others see us heavily depending on God and remaining hopeful in times of "trouble," they will sit up and take notice. I have witnessed for myself how this kind of testimony can lead others to Christ. Today, make yourself available to the Lord, and watch what He will do in you and through you!

Prayer: Lord, help me to never put any obstacles in anyone's way that would hinder them from coming to You. I ask that You examine and evaluate my life and my ministry continually, and that You teach me how to examine myself. Empower me to remain full of faith, patience, and hope during times of trouble and trial. Thank You that as I cooperate with You in these areas, You will make me a powerful world-changer for Christ!