Day 2: Not Everything is Beneficial

The Apostle Paul was very familiar with the culture and customs of the Roman Empire. Having grown up as a citizen of the empire, he could recognize the wisdom found in some of the more common teachings. However, he could also recognize foolish teachings. Knowing the people regularly stated, “Everything is permissible!” Paul responds with stronger, irrefutable wisdom.

In his first letter to the Corinthians, he acknowledges their philosophy: “Everything is permissible!” He responds by saying, “Well, perhaps, but not everything is beneficial.” He retorts again, “Everything is permissible!” “Well, perhaps, but I will not be mastered by anything.” 

In other words, Paul doesn’t refute the Corinthians knowledge of free will or their desire to choose, but he is sure to note that there may be negative consequences to their choices and actions.

Basically, the Corinthians had a culture of, “We can do whatever we want, eat whatever we want, and sleep with whomever we want, whenever we want. Everything is permissible!” But Paul refutes their way of thinking, and does so in a way that continues to ring true today. As you read today, consider this: What are the first thoughts that come to mind as you read 1 Corinthians 6:12-20?

READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 6:12-20

What are the first thoughts that come to mind as you read 1 Corinthians 6:12-20?

Be honest: What is at least one area in life in which you think something similar to, everything is permissible? In what ways are your thoughts and/or actions in this area not beneficial? 

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

Read: 2 Kings 19, 20, & 21

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

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, I confess that there are some aspects of this Scripture reading that I don’t like. There are times when I think to myself that I should be able to say whatever I want, eat whatever I want, think whatever I want, or even fulfill sexual desires however and whenever I want. Admittedly, this is sometimes a challenging Scripture for me to accept and apply. But I know it comes from You and I acknowledge You are not only wiser than me, but that You also have my best interests at heart. Thank You for always desiring the very best for me. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. 

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