If we could learn to adhere to one principle from this passage today then verse 12 would have to rank at the top. "Everything is permissible for me," but not everything is helpful. "Everything is permissible for me," but I will not be brought under the control of anything." I have heard people say to me in argument/defense of their position things like, "The Bible doesn't say not to.... While this may be true in relation to many "grey" areas this verse seems to give much wisdom in making decisions. While the act in question may be "grey" in our eyes the question we must not ask is "Can I?" Instead we should more likely ask, "Should I?" This begs us to consider the question, "Is this the best course of action for me? How does this affect the BIG picture in the grand scheme of life?" Recently Raegan asked me what to say to people who respond to the issue of alcohol with, "What does one drink hurt?" In the case for her friends first and foremost it is illegal. However, in the case of all people, what benefits are there from such an action? Many would and have debated over this topic. My response has often been what benefits has this divisive element brought to your life? For every benefit that some could express I can list numerous damaging effects. So the questions are, "Is that beneficial for my life? Is that something which can master my life?" Whether the issue is alcohol or some other action or attitude our desire should be to do only that which is beneficial for the greater picture.
Takeaways
1. My decisions should be based on the big picture.
2. My decisions should be based on what is beneficial.
3. My decisions should be based on whether that in question will master me.
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