Day 325 - Pursuing What’s Beneficial for All (1 Corinthians 8, 1 Corinthians 9, 1 Corinthians 10, 1 Corinthians 11) Year 2
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TODAY'S READING:

• 1 Corinthians 8, 1 Corinthians 9, 1 Corinthians 10, 1 Corinthians 11:1

WORD OF THE DAY:

• Beneficial

Paul addresses the topic of eating food sacrificed to idols, explaining that while idols hold no real power, some believers may still struggle with the association. He emphasizes that knowledge is important, but love should always be our guiding principle. For example, if eating meat sacrificed to idols might cause a weaker believer to stumble, it’s better to abstain. Love for our fellow believers should shape our choices, especially when Scripture’s guidance isn’t a straightforward yes or no.

Paul shares his approach to Christian ministry by setting aside his rights as an apostle. Although he has the right to receive support from the churches, Paul chooses to work and support himself so he can offer the Gospel freely. Paul compares the Christian life to an athletic race, urging the Corinthians to run to win. “Run with purpose,” he encourages, with the eternal prize of serving Christ in view. Paul gives a lesson from Israel’s history, reminding the Corinthians of how some failed to remain faithful in the wilderness. He warns against idolatry, sexual immorality, and grumbling. He brings them back to the question of eating food sacrificed to idols, saying, “Just because something is permitted does not mean it is beneficial.” While the Corinthians wanted to know what they could get away with, Paul redirects them to live fully for God. He encourages them to choose actions that glorify God and build up others, not merely what benefits themselves. Paul closes his teaching with a powerful exhortation. Paul’s ultimate desire is for every believer to reflect Jesus through their words and actions. Today’s reading teaches us to pursue what is beneficial for others, not just ourselves. Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 10:23 say it clearly: “You say, ‘I am allowed to do anything’—but not everything is good for you. You say, ‘I am allowed to do anything’—but not everything is beneficial.” For believers, this means that even if we have the freedom to act, we must consider how our actions affect others.

1 Corinthians 8 reminds us to choose love over knowledge. Our choices impact others, especially those who are newer or weaker in the faith. Paul encourages us to prioritize what is beneficial by valuing love, humility, and sensitivity toward others’ beliefs.

1 Corinthians 9 highlights the discipline required in Christian life. We’re called to live intentionally, like athletes running for an eternal prize. Developing spiritual discipline is beneficial for our growth and helps us serve others better. Let’s pursue habits that honor Christ and build up our community.

Finally, 1 Corinthians 10 and 11 reinforce the importance of setting an example and doing everything to the glory of God. Whether in decisions about lifestyle, relationships, or faith, we should consider what is truly beneficial—not only for ourselves but for all those around us. Let’s imitate Christ’s love and selflessness daily, keeping our eyes on the prize of becoming more like Him.

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