When Pleasing Man Pleases God

Text: 1 Corinthians 10:23-11:1 Theme: Our actions do not please God if they offend other people. Key verses: “Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others.” (v. 24) “If some unbeliever invites you to a meal and you want to go, eat whatever is put before you…But if anyone says to you, ‘This has been offered in sacrifice,’ then do not eat it…” (v. 27-28) “So whether you eat or drink of whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble…even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.” (v. 31-33) What God said to me: Dwayne, you are still physically sick right now, so we’ll make this shorter than normal. Try to focus though and grasp what I want to tell you. This passage is key in your relationship with me. My followers who don’t understand and embrace this attitude and approach in their daily lives will not honor me. What was Paul’s ultimate goal in this life? He wanted to see people saved. That was his burden and greatest desire. That is why he tried to please everyone in every way. He wasn’t implying that he comprimised his walk and his convictions. Rather, Paul went out of his way to accomodate and bless others. He put their concerns and needs before his own. If fact, he went as far as to put their opinions before his own. Notice he said you can eat of anything set before you unless someone speaks and says your food is for idols. Of course, that is a ridiculous statement, since I made everything, and idols are nothing. However, their opinion was enough to keep Paul — and should prevent all my children — from partaking of that particular food. Now look at v. 31 in context. Paul said whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do for my glory. If your attitude is ultimately bring me glory and honor, sometimes it will mean not eating or not drinking certain things — simply because someone around you might be offended. What I said to God: Father, thank You for helping me see this passage — that I quote so often — in a different and deeper light. What I do “for the glory of God” must therefore also be for good of man. I cannot seperate my responsibility to You with my responsibility to others. Help me love them like You do.