In this scripture the main subject is the eating of food that has been sacrificed to idols.  The people wanted to know if it was wrong to eat that food.  Paul said twice that there is nothing wrong with the food as it is our GOD'S food.  He is the One who provides all food for us to eat.  However, if by eating that food it might cause someone to stumble, then by no means should we eat that food.

    There are so many other things in our life that we can draw a comparison of this to.  Movies, food, drink, what activities we do, etc.  However, we can take this too far.  We can be so busy with the do not's and the 'can not's that we lose our ability to enjoy the life our GOD has given us.  All things are permissible, however, in excess, some things can be harmful.  That is why GOD warns us to not be slothful, gluttons, or drunkards.  All of these things done in excess can be extremely harmful to our physical health and even the health and welfare of others.

    Walking in balance and freedom can be very difficult.  Learning to not let our personal freedoms negatively affect others is where balance comes in.  If your best friend is an alcoholic, is it wise for us to drink alcohol around them?  By no means!  Wouldn't you rather be cast into the sea than to cause a little one to stumble?

    Learning to be free in CHRIST and sensitive to those around us can be a very useful tool of ministry to these same people.  Remember that all things are 'permissible' but not all things are 'beneficial'.

    Join with me today with an open heart before GOD and ask Him to help us walk in liberty and yet not hurt others by our freedom.

open your heart now