God has given us as believers a great deal of freedom. We can eat what we want, drink what we want, so long as our conscience is clear and the food is clean (not specifically prohibited). But, what matters more, my liberty or the soul of another? The apostle Paul reminds of the weaker brother principle. Simply restated- if I do what I am allowed by God and my conscience is clear, I am acting in faith and there is no sin. That’s my freedom in Christ. But, if I choose to forego my freedom because another is tempted or caused to stumble by my behavior or choice, then I do well placing myself in bondage because I am acknowledging the priority of love. So, how do I know when to cling to my freedom or forego it? I pray and the Holy Spirit will lead and guide. This is my bondage and my freedom.
So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another. Do not tear down the work of God for the sake of food. All things indeed are clean, but they are evil for the person who eats and causes offense. It is good not to eat meat or to drink wine, or to do anything by which your brother or sister stumbles. The faith which you have, have as your own conviction before God. Happy is the one who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But the one who doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and whatever is not from faith is sin. Romans 14:19-23 NASB
In what ways am I bringing peace and building others up in their holy faith?
God, as this day begins- I have some meetings and encounters with people. May I be helpful to them for Your glory. Help me be effective and even a bit efficient. May I keep in mind that the building up of others, builds the kingdom of God, which I am committed to do. Give me an awareness of others, so I do not create an unnecessary offense nor use my freedom as a cloak for vice.
