Year of the Bible: Part Eleven of TwelveSample

Why is it Always the Fun Stuff Religious People don't Like?

Paul clearly states in this passage that "everything created by God is good." Two of those good things are marriage and food. Wow, I'm really glad to hear this because I love my spouse and I like to eat. We also see in this passage that those who depart from the life-giving faith in Jesus usually develop all sorts of rules that rob others of the joy and freedoms we have in Jesus.

The enemy of God deceives people into thinking that their behavior is what obtains favor or good standing with God. It is never by merit that we obtain the right standing before God that an honest heart desires. In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul confirmed that it is by grace and grace alone that a person is saved. Here we find Paul, at the end of his life, encouraging his brother, friend, and co-laborer Timothy to contend for the purity of the gospel of Jesus and refuse to participate in silly arguments.

We should heed these instructions as well. Enjoy your food, your spouse, and the good things in life God has given you. Receive all things from God with thanksgiving. Discipline your conversations to avoid arguments that have no real value. Pay attention to your interactions with those who would limit your freedom in Jesus—limits that may sound good at first but ultimately steal the joy of the Lord from you.

Question: Have you been tempted to set up rules for others to follow that have the potential to steal joy? If so, ask the Holy Spirit to show you His mind on the matter. Seek the freedom Jesus gives and grant that freedom to others.

Prayer: Father, grant us Your discernment about which behaviors are pleasing to you. Grant us Your wisdom concerning our freedoms in Jesus. Protect us from our own excess and the bondage of other people's religious rules. Fill our hearts with Your heart for others. Amen.