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 1 Corinthians 7:29-40 - Be Effective for God


With Kari in Calgary

You’ve heard various sayings like, “Let your yes be yes,” “Keep it simple,” “Stick to your knitting,” and “Don’t be doubleminded.”  We see those principles wrapped up in this section of Scripture that advises the Christian that our ministry here on earth, our time, is very short.  We must be effective.  We must live well for God in whatever situation God has placed us.  It’s a reminder that it is quite possible for us to be misguided, distracted, and ineffective.  We can be absorbed by our situation (weeping, rejoicing, possessions) on one hand or we can be absorbed in escaping from our situation (grass is greener syndrome).  Neither is healthy or good for the Christian.

God wants us to have our eyes on Christ (Jesus’ return and His instructions for us today) and in doing so find favor with God (Proverbs 3:4).  Yes there is a time to mourn.  And a time to celebrate.  And a time to enjoy God’s good gifts.  But if you win the Stanley Cup, don’t make that your identity and be absorbed in the earthly trophy.  Celebrate appropriately, and keep your focus, your concern if you will (7:32), on the Almighty’s signals to us, even the slightest signal (Psalm 123) for what we are to do here in ministry in preparation for eternity.  Your earthly achievements and your possessions should not, nay, must not, define you.  Look at your time and activities and give an honest assessment of how best to structure your life to serve God well.

        Likewise, God wants us to be free of the constant distraction of trying to escape our current situation.  Rather, He wants us to thrive in the very situation we are in today and to do all the good we can in that situation by the power of the Spirit of Christ.  Contentment, while it sounds lame and boring, is the opposite - it is where you do miracles.  

        Thank you, Lord God Almighty, for freedom in Christ.  May I watch You closely today for your slightest signal.  I am fed up with the contempt and arrogance of the world.  And often angered by the rot in the church and the frustrations of life.  Please give me mercy to discard these concerns, and to fully trust in You and Your goodness.  Please have mercy on Your people.  Help us to depend on You today God.  Help us not withhold any good from anyone today if it is in our power to give it.  Amen.


Sam and me in Barcelona.



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