The Daily Word: Thursday, August 12th, 2021
Nehemiah 3:15-5:13
1 Corinthians 7:25-40
Psalm 32:1-11
Proverbs 21:5-7
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Commentary from Pastor Michael White:
Now concerning virgins: I have no commandment from the Lord; yet I give judgment as one whom the Lord in His mercy has made trustworthy. – 1 Cor. 7:25
The Apostle Paul was commenting on social issues of importance in his first letter to the church at Corinth. What did God think of marriage? How about divorce? Should new believers stay in their marriages if the spouse didn’t believe in Jesus? How should married couples prioritize their time?
When Paul had a command from the Lord, he declared it (“not I but the Lord”; v 10). But perhaps more important, when he didn’t have a command from the Lord, he admitted it!
Don’t pretend something you say is from God if it’s not. This is particularly important in charismatic/Pentecostal church culture. Not everything you say has to be from God! It is acceptable to “give judgment as one whom the Lord in His mercy has made trustworthy” (v 25).
Speak wisely. When God gives you a prophetic word, declare it! When you are giving your opinion, admit it. The Lord has made you trustworthy in His mercy, and there is nothing wrong with that.
Prayer:
Father, I pray that You would speak to me! When I know I have heard from You on a subject, help me to boldly declare it. But when I’m not sure if it’s my opinion or Your mandate, help me to be honest about where I stand. Thank You for making me trustworthy in Your mercy, in Jesus’ name!
© Michael D. White, 2021. All rights reserved.