October 1, 2024

Passage Read: 1 Corinthians 6-7
Meditation Verse: 7:22

Thought

"He who was called while free, is Christ's slave." Several times in these two chapters Paul teaches this concept in different ways. He who belongs to Christ should no longer live for his own agenda, but be willing to submit himself to other, wiser believers to settle disputes. Indeed, we should prefer to be wronged rather than fight with another brother. We are not our own, but bought at a price and we should live to please the Lord, and give up the things of this world and life in order to please Him. Giving up even marriage in order to be wholly devoted to serving the Lord. Paul illustrates this point in some of the most visceral ways. He gives freedom concerning marriage, but he really wants the Corinthians to understand that they should no longer live for their own desires, but for the will of Christ their Lord and Savior.

Application

The same is true for me. Why should I get upset if someone takes advantage of me, even if another believer? I get upset because I believe I deserve or must have something. Why is that more important than loving my brother? Why do I need to have a wife, when serving Christ is so much more valuable? Why are there so many things I insist on having or doing? Isn't Jesus far better, and serving His kingdom infinitely more valuable? This takes a huge shift in thinking, from me as important to Christ as more precious than everything. These are real tests of faith and discipleship. These are tests of real faith and discipleship. If I can give up all my rights and love Jesus and love my neighbor above myself, then I truly believe in Christ and trust in His promises.