“Wisdom in God’s Word and freedom in God’s grace give us a pathway to experience His abundant life.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – January 5, 2026
But be careful not to use your freedom to eat it, lest you cause some Christian brother to sin whose conscience is weaker than yours. 1 Corinthians 8:9
Paul addresses a difficult issue of his time: the practice of sacrificing meat to idols. Young believers couldn’t handle it, not because of the food itself, but because of what it symbolized. Every bite pulled them back to their idol-worshiping past, to the darkness they’d escaped when they found Christ. The meat wasn’t harmful, but the meaning behind it was problematic. They couldn’t understand why anyone following Jesus would associate so closely with practices that once enslaved them. For these new believers, it was about respect and painful memories.
In Christ, we are free. But freedom without wisdom turns into foolishness. We are called to use our liberty prayerfully, carefully, and wisely. Prayerfully, always seeking God’s guidance. Carefully making sure we lead brothers and sisters deeper into faith, not stumbling blocks. Wisely considering what’s best for everyone, not just what satisfies our personal preferences.
Prayer prompts us to ask the key question: “What would Jesus do?” His approach was simple: more grace for sinners, less for saints. Jesus understood the situation. He related to people at their level, never overwhelming them with behaviors that judge or confuse. He delivered truth with love, always guiding others toward God. Seeking God’s presence keeps Christ’s spirit alive in our actions and how we live.
Discretion always takes precedence over demands. That’s why we emphasize understanding people, not just Scripture. We prioritize their needs over our own desires. Young believers are like spiritual infants, high-maintenance and requiring constant care. Children see things as black and white. They’ll grasp God’s gray areas later, after wrestling with the fundamentals of faith. The training ground of the Ten Commandments prepares them for the creative application of grace. Both are essential for spiritual growth, and how you live matters most to these new believers. Practice restraint and temperance to keep their foundation strong, which provides wisdom and freedom in Christ.
The final question: “What’s the wise thing to do?” Will this activity, thought, or attitude bring others closer to the Lord or push them away? Paul summarized it well: “Let’s please the other fellow, not ourselves, and do what is good and thus build him up in the Lord. Christ didn’t please himself” (Romans 15:2-3). Wisdom seeks what’s best for everyone, not just for me. Wisdom is the child of humility; grace is the daughter of humility. Walk in humility, and you’ll gain wisdom to know what to do and grace to do it.
God’s heart for us? That we are all growing closer to Him. Are we encouraging each other to do good? Are we walking confidently yet humbly, sharing Christ’s gospel with both words and actions? If so, we’ve chosen what’s best for everyone, not just what’s easy for us. Wisdom in God’s Word and freedom in God’s grace give us a pathway to experience His abundant life.
Prayer
Lord, grant me wisdom to wield my freedom carefully. Help me prioritize others over myself, building up the weak rather than flaunting my liberty. May humility guide my choices always. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Application
Where do you need to temper your freedom with wise restraint?
Related Reading
Matthew 18:6; Romans 14:13, 21; 1 Corinthians 10:23-24; Galatians 5:13
Worship Resource
Hillsong Worship: Freedom
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