Isn't it absolutely amazing to think about the incredible
gift of freedom we have in Christ? It's like being given a pair of wings –
we're no longer chained down by sin or our old ways! But just like a bird needs
to learn how to fly, we need to learn how to use this amazing freedom in a way
that truly lifts us up!
The Bible talks about how we have this wonderful liberty as
followers of Christ. In fact, today’s verse says, “all things are lawful for me”
which means I can do whatever I want. This statement likely reflects a slogan
some Corinthians used to justify their behavior, implying that they had
unrestricted freedom in Christ. And while it is true that we are not “under the
law” but “under grace,” not everything we CAN do is actually good for us. Paul
quickly clarifies that just because something is permissible, it doesn't mean
it's beneficial or constructive.
True Christian liberty is not about doing whatever we please,
but about using our freedom wisely to glorify God, build ourselves up in faith,
and build up others. We need to be smart about the choices we make, thinking
about how they affect our relationship with God, how they impact the people
around us, and how they help us grow spiritually. We wouldn't want our freedom
to turn into something that actually holds us back, or worse, hurts us or
someone else, would we?
For example, imagine someone who loves playing video games.
It's fun, right? But what if it starts taking over their whole life? Suddenly,
they're not studying, they're not spending time with their friends and family,
and they're definitely not at church. They might say, "Hey, it's my free
time, I can do what I want!" But is it really freedom if it's
controlling them, keeping them from drawing closer to God and connecting with
other believers? Even though video games themselves aren't necessarily bad, in
this case, they're not helpful. True freedom comes when that person realizes
what's happening and makes a change, choosing to focus on what really matters.
Yes, you can do whatever you want. But, as a new creation in
Christ, the things you “want” should be those things that benefit your
relationship with your loving Savior. So, as you go through your day, think
about the things you're doing. Are they bringing you closer to God, or are they
pulling you away? Are there any habits you need to rethink? Any relationships
that need a little bit of a boundary? Talk to the Holy Spirit about it! Ask for
guidance in making choices that will honor God and help you grow.
Let's truly embrace the freedom that Jesus has given us, but let's do it with wisdom and discernment. Let love be the driving force behind everything we do, and let our biggest desire be to bring glory to God. Our choices really do matter, and they should shine the light of Christ within us.
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