Love Above Rights And Freedom
BRD REFLECTION 2026
1 Corinthians 8 and Psalm 18:7-15 (NIV)
(Koh Geok Cheng from Glowing Years’ Ministry)
READ:
1 Corinthians 8 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
In 1 Corinthians 8, Paul uses the example of eating food offered to idols to remind the church that having knowledge alone only serves to inflate a person’s ego; it requires the important element of love to complete our understanding of faith, as love builds up a person.
“Now concerning things offered to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies.” 1 Corinthians 8:1
While I know that I have the right and freedom to do certain things, such as eating food offered to idols, I should not do so if my actions might become a stumbling block to others.
“But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours becomes a stumbling block to those who are weak.” 1 Corinthians 8:9
“Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.” 1 Corinthians 8:13
APPLY:
Today’s reflection led me to examine my actions and consider whether they may have caused others to stumble, and how I should change. For example, I am free to watch certain shows or listen to certain songs because I know what is right and wrong and will not be influenced by them. However, if I do so in front of someone who may be stumbled or confused by it, then I should refrain. I also recall that when I went on mission trips, even though I had to buy my own air tickets, I decided to travel with the group and not choose my preferred seating or airline. My actions must be motivated by God’s love for others, rather than insisting on my own rights and freedom.
DO:
I will:
· Put love above my rights and freedom.
· Refrain from doing something—even if it is allowed—if it will cause others to stumble.
· Not show off my knowledge of God’s Word to correct those who are not spiritually ready.
PRAY:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the freedom I have in You. Help me to be sensitive to others, especially those who may stumble or be confused. Even though I can be confident in my knowledge of Your Word, help me to put love above all else and let it undergird my actions. Give me humility to put aside my rights and freedom in favour of drawing others closer to You. May my ways help to build up others in faith and not cause them to stumble. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
