1 Corinthians Chapter 10: Verses 23-24 (NIV)
“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but not everything is constructive. No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.
1 Corinthians Chapter 10: Verses 31-33 (NIV)
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God— even as I try to please everyone in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.
It seems that Human nature hasn’t changed since Paul’s time. We still frequently hear people say, “I have the right to do whatever I want.” Likewise, Paul’s words of caution are still relevant. Just because it’s possible to do something doesn’t mean that it’s a wise course of action.
We also need to remember that people take note of how we conduct ourselves, and if some people know that we’re a Christian, they may have a perception of how a Christian should behave. Even if its not a correct one, they will expect us to meet the standard they expect from a Christian.
If we fail to act with integrity, it doesn’t just reflect badly on us, but also on Jesus Himself, because we are meant to be doing our best to emulate His behaviour and character. Perhaps a good measure of our actions is to pause and reflect on whether what we’re doing would bring glory to God.
I recall a headmaster say that any misbehaviour of pupils outside of school whilst they were wearing their school uniform reflected badly on the whole school. As Christians we are told to clothe ourselves with Christ. (Romans chapter 13: verse 14) We need to remember to do that so that what we do doesn’t reflect badly on Him.
Dear Lord,
Help me to remember daily to clothe myself with Christ. May my conduct and behaviour bring You glory, not bring You into disrepute. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.