March 23, 2012 (Joshua 15-17; 1 Corinthians 8 )
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “But we know that there is only one God, the Father, who created everything, and we live for Him. And there is only one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom God made everything and through whom we have been given life.” 1 Corinthians 8:6 NLT
Observation: Paul was dealing with many people who believed in many gods. They would sacrifice meat to an idol, and eat it as an act of worship to it. Paul knew that there was only one true God and whether a person ate this meat sacrificed to idols, or not, really didn’t matter. The idol was not real and had no power to do anything because it was without life! He proclaimed the truth about Jesus Christ as being the one whom we have been given life through. Paul encouraged people to consider what others may think if they witnessed them eating meat offered to idols as a sacrifice. People were watching those who proclaimed to be Christians then, and they are still watching us today.
Application: We face similar situations today. We live in a world that is full of idols and false gods. But we know there is only one God, and it is our responsibility as Christians to live for Him. We should be careful of the places we go, careful of the things we say, careful of the opinions we have, and careful of the actions we take. Why? Because people are watching us. Here’s an example, say I have no problem going to a place called “Hooters” for lunch. I like their wings and I drink cola with my lunch. I don’t lust after the women, however I must admit the opportunity is abundant. So what if I took a new believer there for lunch, but he wasn’t able to resist the temptation to lust. In not being careful of the places I choose to go I could easily cause my brother to stumble. So it would be prudent for me to be considerate of my brother and keep him from becoming spotted because of my choices. (Even though Hooters does have good wings!)
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this wonderful Friday! Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me daily. Thank You for Your strong right arm that fights for me and wins! You are the only true God and I desire to live for You. Jesus is the only Lord I desire, for through Him I have eternal life. Help me be careful of the places I go, the things I say, the opinions I have and the actions I take. Make me a vessel that brings You honor in all I do, in Jesus name, Amen!