The Set-Up:
Ever been in a situation in life where envy, regret, jealousy, and desire to be something else led you to try to control a situation on your own? Instead of remaining in Christ and allowing Him to work whatever way works in accordance with His will, you did it your own way?
Sometimes we try to change our situation instead of allowing God to move in the situation. We value control and we think if we had what they had, or if our life fit into that mold, or if our circumstance could be more like a circumstance that feels better, we ourselves would “feel” better. Life would be better.
This is what Paul is talking about in this section of 1 Corinthians, sandwiched between marriage and singleness. Paul wants us to “remain with God” instead of fighting against Him because of discontentment with our lives. We are to seek to honor Him with the life He has given us, even if it’s not the life we would have “pictured” for ourselves. Abide with Christ, and seek to serve Him no matter the circumstances you are faced with.
Scripture:
Reflection Questions:
Are there areas of your life where envy has shown itself?
Does this passage mean that you have to stay in whatever situation you are in forever? Why or why not?
What does it mean to “remain in God”?
What disciplines can you put in place to seek to honor God with your life?
Prayer idea:
Take some time to pray over your life, and ask God to show you ways that you can honor Him, put Him on full display, and how you can be content with the life He has given you. Also, pray for others in your circle of influence to live life in such a way that honors God, no matter the circumstances they may be facing.
This devotional was written by Phil Culham