Introductory Thoughts
The Christian life usually contains some very difficult decisions. Life's choices do not always involve choosing between good and evil; sometimes our choices involve choosing between something good and something better or best. For instance, a choice may involve something not necessarily wicked, but equally not edifying. This choice may not involve sin, but also fails to build others in the Lord. Believers who truly love the Lord may, at times, have to choose to forsake some things in life because they do not edify. Our passage confirms these truths as it says that all things do not edify. Paul emphasized this when he stated, “if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth” (1 Corinthians 8:13). Clearly, edification serves a much greater purpose than simple convenience or liberty.
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): Some people use cards and dice for things condemned in scripture. We may have games that contain these items and play with them because we don't use them wickedly. However, if a Christian friend has a strong conviction about these things, we should show him respect and not play the games around him (Romans 14:21).
-
(For everyone): What are some areas that might not be sinful but would be equally unable to edify others? Would you be willing to give those things up for the glory of God?
-
Are there some things in your life that might not be considered sinful but could be used of the Devil to destroy or weaken others around you?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to help you make choices that edify yourself and others.
- Ask the Lord to show you things that destroy.
Song
ABOVE THE TREASURES OF THIS WORLD
