March 23, 2013 (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: There were so many pagan idols within Corinth. Animals were being sacrificed at idol temples and then the meat was being sold at the local butcher shop. New converts were struggling with how they should respond to this. Was it ok to eat the meat that had been sacrificed to an idol, or was it sin? Would something bad happen to them if they ate the meat offered to an idol as a sacrifice? Paul encouraged them by reminding them that there was only one true God and these pagan idol gods were not really gods at all. However, Paul also warned those that thought it was no big deal to be careful not to offend one that was struggling with the issue.
Application: Through Christ, God has given the believer liberty. However, Christians must be careful not to turn their liberty into a stumbling block for others. God given liberty is not the right to do as one chooses but rather the freedom to do as God says. We all have knowledge of some degree, but love for others is how God is revealed through us. Knowledge makes us feel important, it puffs up, but love is what edifies and strengthens His church. While knowledge is desirable and should be sought, love is the principle attribute of God we should seek. There is only one God who created everything and we have only one Lord, Jesus Christ, of whom we have been given life and liberty.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for the many blessings that You freely give to me. Thank You for the freedom and liberty You give to me through Jesus. Help me use the knowledge You give to lift up and strengthen Your church. Place love at the forefront of every action I take. Fill me with Your wisdom, yes Lord! But most of all fill me with Your love, in Jesus name, Amen!