PRAY: Thank you, Lord, that your will and purpose for my life are best.
READ: 1 Corinthians 7:17–24
MEDITATE:
God is sovereign, and your life is part of his divine plan and purpose. Like Rick Warren says in The Purpose-Driven Life, “It’s not about you,” but about discovering God’s purpose for your life and how you can live for him.
People in the Corinthian church came from different backgrounds. Paul was aware of their differing circumstances when he was inspired to say, “Each one should retain the place in life that the Lord assigned to him and to which God has called him” (v. 17). This can be a sensitive subject, and it is important to point out that Paul was not enforcing subjugation of those who were slaves, since he said that if they were able gain their freedom, they should (v. 21).
More important than your station in life is the fact that Christ died for you. “You were bought at a price” (v. 23), which is the life and blood of the Son of God himself. That’s why your first priority must be to serve the Lord, who gave himself for you in the place where he has put you. God has you there for a reason.
It’s very difficult to be in The Episcopal Church these days, but be assured that God has you here for his purposes. Like Queen Esther, God has called us for “such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). That doesn’t mean we sit passively and do nothing; we are called to follow Christ. But rather than complain to God about your circumstances, look at it as an opportunity to be part of his plan and the exciting things he has ahead for us.
Questions and Application:
- What does this passage say?
- What does this passage mean?
- How do you feel about being part of The Episcopal Church?
- Why do you think God has you in this church at this time?
- What challenges do you face in being faithful to Christ?
PRAY: Heavenly Father, by your Holy Spirit help me to be faithful in the place you have called me and ready to follow you wherever you lead.