A Word of Encouragement

September 28, 2026

Acrylic-010 - circa 1976

Grace, Hope & Peace, Friend;

Still talking about our actions as Christians, Paul wrote, "All things are permitted, but not all things are of benefit. All things are permitted, but not all things build people up. No one is to seek his own advantage, but rather that of his neighbor." (1 Corinthians 10:23-24)

Although that sounds like, "We can do anything we want," there are restrictions!

Are our actions of any benefit? (Pleasing my own desires is not a real benefit - it only leads to stronger desires.)

Do our actions build up others - edify others? (How does what I do affect others?)

Using the example of eating meat sacrificed to idols, Paul wrote, "Eat anything that is sold in the meat market without asking questions, for the sake of conscience... If one of the unbelievers invites you and you want to go, eat anything that is set before you without asking questions... but if anyone says to you, "This is meat sacrificed to idols," do not eat it... for the sake of conscience." (1 Corinthians 10:25-28)

As believers, we know that idols are inanimate objects, so why should our consciences be an issue? They aren't! Paul explains.

Now by 'conscience' I do not mean your own, but the other person’s.
	1 Corinthians 10:29a-c

It is THEIR conscience that is the issue. By saying, "This is meat sacrificed to idols," they are indicating that they believe an idol is more than an inanimate object and want to see what our response will be. Will we partake in what was meant to honor their idols?

Then Paul asks a natural but selfish question that many of us would ask,

...Why should my freedom be limited by someone else's conscience? If I partake with thankfulness, why am I slandered about that for which I give thanks
	1 Corinthians 10:29d-30 (CEV)

The answer goes back the earlier question; "Do our actions build up others - edify others?" If they believe it is wrong (or dishonors God), will our actions tempt them to go against their conscience? As Paul declared earlier, "Therefore, if food causes my brother to sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause my brother to sin." (1 Corinthians 8:13)

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all things for the glory of God.
Emphasis mine	1 Corinthians 8:13

"Do all things for God's glory."

Elohim Kedoshim - Holy God - let my actions bring You glory and build up others.

Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, on those who wait for His faithfulness
	Psalm 33:18

For His glory,