Day 1: Everything is Permissible

Have you ever had somebody tell you something you couldn’t or shouldn’t do? Of course you have. Whether it was a parent, a grandparent, a sibling, a teacher, or an employer, we’ve all had somebody tell us what we couldn’t or shouldn’t do. 

In some of these moments, we immediately recognize the wisdom of the person speaking with us. We know they have our best interests at heart, or at the very least, we recognize their desire to see us succeed. Assuming they have our best interests at heart, we know they truly care for our well-being.

But in other moments, we may think to ourselves, “Who do they think they are? I’m not doing anything ‘wrong’. Who are they to tell me what I should or shouldn’t do?”

Even though the ancient city of Corinth was a very different culture than our own, the people had a similar way of thinking. In fact, a common saying shared on the streets was, “Everything is permissible!” For example, if somebody were to say, “Hey, I’m not sure that’s a very good idea,” you could respond by saying, “Leave me alone! Everything is permissible!” 

As you read today, consider this: Have you ever thought something like, “Everything is permissible?” 

READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 6:12-20

How do you think most people would respond to this passage today?

Have you ever thought something like, “Everything is permissible?” What was the outcome? 

F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)

Read: 2 Kings 17 & 18

Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today?

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, I confess there have been many times in which I’ve had the thought, “I’m not doing anything wrong!” I’m continuing to recognize the fallacy of this way of thinking. Whether it’s regarding sexual thoughts, finances, marriage, parenting, or race, continue to help me see that this way of thinking does not lead to wisdom, but to ruin. 

As I begin a new week, may I regularly reflect on the truth that not everything is beneficial. I give You permission to help me see when my thoughts and actions are not beneficial for me or for others. Lead and guide me in everything. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. 

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