Devotion for Sunday, January 26, 2020

“For through your knowledge he who is weak is ruined, the brother for
whose sake Christ died. And so, by sinning against the brethren and wounding
their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if food
causes my brother to stumble, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not
cause my brother to stumble” (1 Corinthians 8:11-12).

The place for the knowledge we
gain is maturity not superiority. Many fall into the temptation of pride and so
destroy the possibility of their brother or sister living a life of faith. One
who becomes like Christ has compassion for all. Christ did not demonstrate
superiority, but compassion, and reached out to all. We ought to do the same. What
is it you give up when you give up for another?

 Lord, teach me that this world is fleeting and the things I know are gifts from You. Guide me in a way of life that does not look at things for gain, but looks at things as a part of the whole of Your creation. When it comes to others, grant that I would learn compassion and mercy. Help me to see in others that which others saw in me to give me the opportunity to know You.

Lord Jesus, You have shown us how
to have compassion for those around us. You have shown me mercy and grace and
have taught me to do likewise. Guide me, Lord. this day to see differently
where I have been crass or uncaring. Grant me the ability to focus upon the
better portion knowing that only in You is there hope and a future. Let me share
the same with others. Amen.