March 21, 2013 (Joshua 9-11; 1 Corinthians 6)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Even to have such lawsuits with one another is a defeat for you. Why not just accept the injustice and leave it at that? Why not let yourselves be cheated?” 1 Corinthians 6:7 NLT
Observation: Paul was trying to instruct the Corinthians about everyday life issues. For two believing Christians to be going to a secular court against each other was an embarrassment to the church. Paul was of the belief that those within the church should be the one’s that help settle such issues. Sadly, even to have a lawsuit filed between two believers was a defeat to them both. Why not just accept the injustice and leave it at that? Why not let yourselves be cheated? The simple answer is pride. Pride keeps us from following God’s plans and listening to His desires. Pride puts us on the pedestal and makes God’s will second.
Application: Was Paul saying all lawsuits are ungodly? Was he saying a Christian should never file suit against anyone, for any reason? I don’t personally believe that is what Paul was saying. I believe the core of Paul’s message was this; Christians should be willing to seek God in all things and do what He says is right and not resort to secular understanding. Christians are to be led by the Spirit, not the flesh. If a “Christian” chooses to do wrong against another believer, then the wronged believer should leave the matter in God’s hands to decide. Rest assured God knows all about the situation and will not allow evil to go unpunished. David said it like this, “I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and the right of the poor.” Psalm 140:12 KJV
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for Your word. Help me Lord know how to apply it to my life. What is Your will concerning the situation I face? Should I accept the injustice and be cheated, or shall I stand up and fight against the evil that has risen up against me? I surrender to what Your will is, help me to hear You speak. Thank You for Your grace and mercy that provide and protect me everyday, in Jesus name, Amen!