“‘All things are lawful,’ but not all things are helpful. ‘All things are lawful,’ but not all things build up. Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor… So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.” “[Love] does not insist on its own way.” 1 Corinthians 10:23-24,31-33; 13:5
“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:4
Paul makes clear that although many behaviors were allowed by law or license, not all of them were good or beneficial. His example was instructive, and likely convicting. His parameters for making choices took into account what was constructive and helpful, the possible offense to others, and the advantage of many toward salvation. Around and above these considerations was that of God’s glory. Nothing was to be insisted or acted upon without love and the Lord at the fore. His was a challenging but important calling if his churches were to effectively witness for and honor Jesus.
It is subversive in present culture to live for God or others. Left to our fickle whims, we do not think or act that way. It is not the bent of human nature to serve anyone or anything but self, or to tamper down flesh impulses and say no for others’ sake. Inherited selfishness along with the narcissistic mantras of media and collective education ingrain a ‘me-first’ impulse and ‘best-self’ motive for every decision. If it is allowed, and sometimes even if it is not, but feels right, we push ahead with prideful agency to do our own thing regardless of how it affects others or bears out on the Lord’s reputation. The commands to love God and others before ourselves, and to serve them instead of ourselves, come hard and pierce sharp in a willful heart. (Deuteronomy 6:5; Mark 12:29-31)
When planning or tending to an agenda, the one whose good and glory we seek gets priority. What do my calendar and expenditures reveal of true priorities?For whom am I living? I may say for the Lord, but the how and why of my choices tell more about what really matters to me. If I am fudging on commitments because of convenience, or indulging in something that trips up another or makes me late and so dishonors others, I am preferring myself.
What natural practices need I exchange for Christ-like ones that serve His will? How can I honor Him by favoring others in His name? In Christ, who calls us to live not for ourselves but for the good of others and God’s glory, we are enabled. (2 Corinthians 5:17; Colossians 3:3-10,12-17)
As we prefer others over ourselves we exercise and illuminate the selflessness of Christ who gave His all for us. This magnifies His attributes and brings Him glory.
Lord, may I consistently seek other’s good in my heart, prayers, and choices, and act intentionally, in Your grace and power, for their sake and Your glory.
As the rain and snow 