The Body of Christ

"All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any." 1 Corinthians 6:12

The Corinthians had adopted a slogan "All things are lawful for me", to justify their immoral behavior. Paul affirmed his own doctrine of Christian liberty, showing them that "lawfulness" of any given behavior was qualified by its "helpfulness" only. Freedom to act as one pleases is not really freedom at all but a subtle form of bondage.

I am witnessing others choices on how they want to portray themselves and their beliefs more and more each time I turn on the news. As Christians we have to be careful about how we make a stand. Paul provides a guideline for decision making in the following passages that I believe we can benefit from.

We must ask ourselves:

~Will the course being considered lead a fellow Christian to sin by your example?

"Let no one seek his own, but each one the other's well-being." (1 Cor. 10:23)

~Will the action provide strength and encouragement to your own life?

"Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face evermore!" (1 Chr. 16:11)

~Will the action ultimately glorify God?

"Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Cor. 10:31)

Every person faces decisions with immediate and long-term consequences. For Christians, wise decisions can be made with the confidence that God directs our every step as we seek His will in prayer, Bible study, and listening to the Holy Spirit.

Consider each of the above questions every time you are faced with a decision. It is well worth the time to take a step back and not be so quick to act or react. Remember, we are His hands and feet.

I love you & He loves you more!

Lord, We are The body, aim our direction with love in this lost and dying world. Help us to seek You for every decision we have to make being mindful of those who are watching. May we portray Your love in everything we do and say. In Jesus' name. Amen.