• How to Make Good Decisions
    Enjoy Life Forever!—An Interactive Bible Course

    • 5. Respect the consciences of others

      Different people will make different decisions. How can we show respect for the consciences of others? Consider two situations:

      Situation 1: A sister who likes to wear makeup moves to a congregation where many sisters are bothered when they see others wearing it.

      Read Romans 15:1 and 1 Corinthians 10:23, 24, and then discuss these questions:

      • Based on these verses, what might that sister decide? What will you do if you are with a person whose conscience forbids doing something that your conscience allows you to do?

      Situation 2: A brother knows that the Bible does not condemn using alcohol in moderation, but he chooses to abstain from it. He is invited to a social gathering where he sees brothers drinking alcohol.

      Read Ecclesiastes 7:16 and Romans 14:1, 10, and then discuss these questions:

      • Based on these verses, what might that brother decide? What will you do if you see another person doing something that your conscience keeps you from doing?

      What steps lead to good decisions?

      A woman praying.

      1. Ask Jehovah to help you decide what to do.​—James 1:5.

      The same woman doing research using the Bible, Bible-based publications, and a computer.

      2. Do research in the Bible and Bible-based publications to find principles that apply. You may also consult experienced Christians.

      The same woman thinking.

      3. Consider the effect the decision will have on your conscience and the consciences of others.