Hello, it is good to see you. My favourite verse in the Bible might appear to be an impossible challenge. Yet, when you read it, it can be life changing. Put into practice, it leads to less conflict, less resentment, and less selfishness. Instead, it brings kindness and consideration for others. Best of all, it emphasises that we have a loving God. A father figure who looks for us to show our love for him, by how we treat each other. It is in Paul’s first letter to the members of a church in Corinth who he had spent some months with and knew them well. He had since heard that some of them were getting a bit proud and boastful about their achievements. They were looking down on others who they considered inferior and humiliating them. It prompts Paul to say this to them: “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Paul is saying, it isn’t great public gestures showing how good we are that give glory to God. It is the way we behave every day that matters to God. Trying not to offend or humiliate those we meet with. Not trying to always make ourselves look good or better than others. Instead, being content with what we have and showing gratitude for it. Willing to help others and consider their feelings too. Taking time to think how what we do, impacts on others, rather than trying to make ourselves look good at their expense.
Jesus also said something else that is a bit out of step with what we think these days: He who is least among you all is the one who is great. (Luke 9:48). In a society that encourages us to tell everyone how good we are, that is quite a challenge. Perhaps that means I have two favourite verses rather than one. But it is two ends of the same piece of string. Our humility and consideration for others, emphasises the greatness of God and his kindness towards us. It also makes for a much more fulfilling life.
Thank you for listening.
Bro Phil