Looking Beyond Ourselves
Scripture
“’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.’” I Corinthians 10:23-24
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the freedom You have given us through Jesus. Help us remember that just because something is permissible doesn’t always mean it is helpful, wise, or beneficial. Give us the wisdom to look beyond what we have the right to do and consider how our choices may affect the people around us.
Keep us from becoming so focused on our own rights, preferences, or freedoms that we lose sight of one another. Help us recognize when something we want to do might become a stumbling block or simply fail to serve someone well.
Teach us to live with a bigger perspective—to not only ask, “What do we want?” but “What will help?” and “How can we build one another up?” Give us hearts that genuinely seek the good of others, even when that means setting aside something we could freely choose for ourselves.
May our freedom never become more important to us than our love for one another. Help us follow the example of Jesus, who never made life about Himself, but willingly gave Himself for others. May our choices reflect that same love and consideration for those around us.
In Jesus’ name - Amen.
Questions for Reflection
Is there an area of my life where I need to consider how my choices affect the people around me?
Am I more concerned with defending my rights or with building others up?
Grace & peace to you today - Michelle
