Wednesday, 30 July 2014
Brethren, let each one remain with God in that state in which he was called. 1 Corinthians 7:24
This verse is somewhat of a repeat from verse 17 and it covers the entire thought from verses 17-23. In essence, Paul is saying that whatever state one was called in is acceptable and that there is nothing wrong with remaining in that condition. Whether one is married or single, a slave or a master, or whether they are circumcised or uncircumcised, there is nothing in the Christian faith which they have accepted that would ask them to change that state.
In this thought though, there is nothing which condones a lifestyle which is contrary to the Christian message. In other words, if someone’s lifestyle was contrary to what is expected of a Christian, that is not included in Paul’s word here. Only those things which are neutral, or those things which are set aside in Christ (such as circumcision) fall within the parameters of these words. We are not granted license to continue in the life of sin which we were engaged in when we called on Jesus.
We are to conduct our walk side by side with the Lord and in harmony with His expectations, but not fearing that we must change our state now that we are in Christ.
Life application: Let us walk confidently with Christ, knowing that He has accepted us in the state in which He called us. If we are poor and drive an old car, we are just as acceptable to Him as if we were loaded with money and had a large house and many possessions. What we possess is not what is important. Our faith in Him and our adherence to His word, however, is worth much in His sight.
Heavenly Father, I feel so blessed just to be allowed to come into Your presence knowing that You hear my prayers. Thank You for access to Your throne of grace which I have because of the shed blood of Christ. Today, my prayer is one of thanks, gratitude, and praise. Be exalted, O God, in my life and in the lives of all Your saints. Amen.