All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify.
I Corinthians 10:23
The Apostle Paul emphasizes that even though we may have the right to engage in various activities, not all things are going to be beneficial for our spiritual growth. We should be motivated to build up others, rather than satisfying our own desires.
Each day we are faced with countless choices such as how we will spend our time, what words we will speak, and the actions and attitudes we will take. Each decision we make reflects our love for God and our love for others. We must consider how much of an impact it will make on our spiritual well-being, as well as how much influence it will have on those around us.
A good example is with our finances. How we choose to earn, save and spend money can make an influence on others. Even though we have the right to do whatever we desire with our own finances we should be conscious of how it will influence others and how it glorifies God.
What you choose to do is all up to you. Choosing things that edify, encourage, and strengthen others in their faith will bring glory to God. Be mindful of your influence and seek to be a positive example, inspiring others to walk in righteousness with Christ.
Pray
Lord, I thank You for the freedom You have given to me. Teach me to exercise discernment in my choices and consider the impact they have on my spiritual growth and the edification of others. Help me to build up others through my words, deeds, and decisions. In Jesus’ name, amen.
