Devotion 9/9, A heart like God’s

Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others.

1 Corinthians 10:24, A heart like God’s

Paul is addressing the church of Corinth here and they had all kinds of bad behavior going on in their Church. But there were still some, albeit few, godly individuals. A problem had risen up about eating meat that had been offered to idols. Some Christians had a huge problem with that and were livid at those Christians who saw this meat as just plain meat and had no problem making a meal of it. So, to that end Paul tells them to not eat that meat in front of those who are offended by it so as not to cause them to stumble in their life for Christ. But, if they ate the meat while not around these weaker Christians it was no problem. (Galatians 5:13, Romans 15:1)

The same principal is to be applied today in our world. Many Christians have trouble with various things that make no difference whatsoever to God. Such as what type of Christian music is to be sung and played in Church, hymns or Christian contemporary. What people should wear to church, casual or dressed up. These are just two of many things can seen split churches wide open and it is a disgrace on Christ’s name when this happens, for we are His representatives to the unsaved.

We should do our level best to get along with our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. But God never asks us to give up our Christian liberties which He died to give us. Unless Scripture forbids something we are free to do it. But, we should be respectful when around those who may be offended by it!

Isn’t it amazing how the more we try to fix things for ourselves — the more we focus on “looking out for number 1” — and the more we find ourselves isolated from meaningful relationships that make life worth living? “If you want to have a friend, then be a friend,” the saying goes. You know what? That saying is correct! Anyone can seek only what is in their best interest — it’s what MOST folks do. But what makes Christians redemptive, what makes them like God, their spiritual Father, is their willingness to think of others before themselves!

Father, forgive me because I know that I am often selfish and seldom think through the implications of my decisions based on the needs of others. I want to have the mind of Christ and be more selfless and sacrificial with everyone who needs your grace (Philippians 2:4-8). Please bless me as I seek to be like your Son in this area of my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Father God, give me Your heart to interact with others and to be sensitive to their weaknesses. Thank You for sending Jesus to die for my sins and give me a life of freedom and liberty in You! I give You all praise this day, Amen!