Thursday, August 16, 2018

Thursday, August 16

THURSDAY, AUGUST 16, 2018

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God -- even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.... Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." (1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1)


These verses above speak to the Christ-follower's responsibility to bring salt and light into communities where the light of the Gospel may not be showing. While we cannot convince anyone of the beauty of Christ or the reality of His resurrection, Paul's instruction to "do it all for the glory of God" applies to us.

How may we practically live out this mandate today? The context suggests that our actions hold significance for our witness for Christ; the Corinthians wondered about food sacrificed to idols, a controversial topic that, if handled flippantly, could bring disrepute on the Church and her message. As a result, Paul urges caution in exercising Christian freedom: we do not wish to rattle the consciences of those watching.

We wish to present a sweet aroma of Christ to a watching world (2 Corinthians 2:15-17), starting with thinking not just of our own concerns, but also those of others. That others-mindedness will draw us back to seeking God's best for our lives and living a life of integrity, humility, and excellence in our efforts. To God be the glory in our lives and our community!


Lord God, we thank You for giving us the opportunity to live among many people. Give us wisdom to cast Your sweet aroma among those who are hungry and thirsty to know You. Help us to wrestle with controversial topics and to avoid rattling consciences. Use us as Your hands and feet in Stamford and beyond. In Jesus's Name, amen.


________________________________________________________________________
596 Glenbrook Road, Unit 13 | "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection
Stamford, CT 06906-1423 | and the life. He who believes in me will
(C) 203.820.1741 | live, even though he dies; and whoever
(H) 203.355.9374 | lives and believes in me will never die.
(E) swe@edwa.info | Do you believe this?'" -- John 11:25,26

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