◄ What Does 1 Corinthians 10:31 Mean? ►

Although in context, this verse reminds us not to fall into legalism by imposing non-scriptural rules and regulations upon ourselves or others about what we can or can't eat, or what we should or should not drink, in its wider application, this is a life-challenge to all believers.

This verse reminds us that everything we do should be done to the glory of God. And whether we find ourselves to be alone or in the company of others, whether we are thrust into the business of every-day life or quietly confined to the isolation of a sick-bed, our attitudes and actions should be such that they are a positive reflection of God's glory.

But there is a further reason that whatever we do should be done to the glory of God, and this verse reminds us that it is connected with a loving concern for others. Brothers and sisters in Christ who are weaker in the faith, may find that their consciences prohibit them from practicing something which although quite 'lawful', could cause them to stumble in their Christian life.

How important that we who have a clear conscience in such issues, should not flaunt our freedom in Christ in such a way that it causes them to stumble or to become confused in their Christian walk, and so we read that even in this: "Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."

Whether immersed in the drudgery of daily chores, quietly watching the tv, or scrolling through the internet, we should do all to the glory of God. Whatever we do during the day and whatever activities we engage in during the night-time hours, all should be carried out for His praise and glory. If we find ourselves in difficulties or when we are engaged in some leisure time, it should always be glorifying to the Lord.

Whether we find ourselves in the first flush of youth or if we have advanced into the twilight years of old age, ALL that we are and all the choices we make should be for His glory. All the thoughts of our minds and all the motives of our hearts should be an open book so that when observed by others, our life proclaims ALL to the glory of God.

Whenever we are faced with a choice in life, there are two important considerations that should help guide our behaviour. Firstly, does my conduct or choice glorify the Lord and secondly, could my action or attitude negativity impact my Christian testimony or have a detrimental effect on my fellow man.

Perhaps a simple way to avoid falling into legalism or license, is to follow Paul's simple instruction to do everything to the glory of God; to reverently and honestly ask the question, 'Is my behaviour honouring to Him? Do my actions and attitude bring glory to God or am I tarnishing His holy name?'

May we take to heart this simple instruction from Paul, that whether we eat, or drink, or whatever we do, we do all to the glory of God.

Oh Lord my God, how I long to be one whose life is a living testimony to Your goodness and grace and whose only desire is to live my life to glorify You. Take my life, Lord, and may Your will be done in all I say and do today. Use me as a vessel to Your praise and glory in such a way that You increase, and I decrease, until it is Christ living in and through me, to His praise and glory. This I ask in Jesus' name, AMEN.