1 Corinthians 4:6-7
Today's Scripture

So often we read meaning into things that were not intended. If my kids say that they're not hungry, it doesn't mean I'm a terrible cook. If my husband asks me to straighten the pantry to make room for his lunch pail, it doesn't mean I'm the worst housekeeper in the state.

It is also tempting to go beyond what we read or hear from the Bible. True, we must interpret God's word, and many interpretations are valid. But it is necessary to read the text in its context and ask for the Holy Spirit's guidance as we read. Here, Paul advises us to "not go beyond what is written." In this situation it seems to mean that we should not value ourselves as better than others because of what God has given us. We need to focus on the giver, not ourselves, and be grateful to a loving a extravagant God, who wants to give to us all. Let us boast in God and his goodness, and not in what we have ourselves.


- posted by Suzi @ 6:48 AM