Such Things: sphere of influence

So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10:31

This is such a familiar verse for most of us. One of those you see retweeted on Twitter that either gives you a momentary fuzzy feeling, or prompts you to keep scrolling past because you've heard it a million times before. But is that all it is? A go-to verse that is meant for statuses and canvas art?

Hardly. This verse comes from a passage written by Paul about not only how we should live, but the power of our influence on others. {1 Corinthians 10:23-33}

    Paul starts out by telling us that while something may be lawful or allowed, it is not always good for us or beneficial to others, and that we should be concerned not for our own good but for the good of others. Then he gives an example of eating meat sacrificed to idols. God allowed this meat to be eaten because regardless of its use in false worship, it is of the earth and made by God to be good for food. However, during this time, many were still living with the belief that such feasting was wrong. So if we are in the presence of a weaker conscience (or, non-believer) and it is made known that the meat was from an idol sacrifice, we should not eat it, even though we are allowed. While it is okay to eat, it is not okay to violate someone's conscience, or to cause them to view you as a law-breaker.

    Today, this example can be paralleled with many situations we can be faced with. For college students, this might be drinking alcohol. Maybe you don't drink all that much, and when you do it's just a little. But take a moment to consider your company when you do. If you are among others like you, be mindful of the law and have a great time. However, if there may be an unbeliever among you who is unfamiliar with your habits, but knows you are a Christian, reconsider. There is nothing about the simple act of eating or drinking that glorifies God. What does glorify God in these things is how we show our concern for others, even sacrificing our rights in order to seek another’s best interest. Or perhaps, should we buy from businesses who will then use that money to support sin (e.g., homosexual agenda)? You’re simply buying a product; you can’t control how they choose to spend their money.. But what if your decision will cause someone to stumble?

   Think about how you may be influencing others. Even if you are following the law, be aware of the perceptions people may have and make an effort to set a good example.

I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don’t just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved.

1 Corinthians 10:33