“If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the world, why, as if you were living in the world, do you submit yourself to decrees, such as, “Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!” (Colossians 2:10-21)
I have seen this too many times to not point out to you, dear friend, that it will do you good to pay attention to this. You are not here to please others, but the Lord who made you. Yes, be sensitive to others, but know that this is for love’s sake and has nothing to do with the law. You are free, but do what is profitable for your faith. Smile and love those who promote these things, but live freely.
Lord, grant Your heart to me so that I may live in the freedom You give. Guide me to see where I need to be sensitive and where I need to simply walk away and do what needs (or should) be done. In all things, help me to see that it is You alone whom I am to please. You gave us rules for proper conduct, Lord; help me not to fall prey to any other’s ideas of propriety. Guide me now and always in what is good, right and salutary.
Lord Jesus, You have given me Your Spirit to lead me every moment in the way I should go. Let me not fall into the snares of the wicked one who would trap me with a false sense of propriety. In all things, lead me to be sensitive, but firm, so that I may live life as You would have me. Guide me today and every day in the way of truth and teach me how to live this life in Your freedom. Amen.
