*** w77 12/1 p. 716 Do All Things with a Good Conscience ***
PRINCIPLE FOR DECISIONS IN DOUBTFUL AREAS
19 While the apostle here uses only the two examples, he sets the principle for all cases in which conscience is involved. Today there are many circumstances in which there is no specific, direct instruction or rule from the Bible. These are sometimes called “gray areas.” Such areas exist in the fields of employment, medical treatment, food, clothing, and others. The Bible gives principles to guide us in all these areas. What it definitely states, all should follow. For example, the Bible says that dress and grooming should be ‘well arranged, with modesty and soundness of mind,’ neat and clean. (1 Tim. 2:9; 2 Cor. 7:1) Respect for our brothers’ feelings and for the congregation and its good reputation in the community should be maintained. But styles, colors, and so forth, may vary greatly according to individual tastes.
20 The individual involved in these “gray areas” should look to the Bible and Bible aids. If he is still not clear on a decision, he may consult elders or others who can help him to see what the Bible says, but he should not let others make his decision for him. They are not his “conscience.” Let him weigh matters himself, make his own decision, and follow through on this conscientious conclusion. With the passage of time he may come to see the matter in a different light, and make an adjustment, but he should avoid doing anything about which he has doubts, so that he will not be self-condemned.—Rom. 14:23.