Hand in Hand Transformation

 ¹Now concerning ^(A)things sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have ^(B)knowledge Knowledge^(C)makes arrogant, but love ^(D)edifies.

 ^2(E)If anyone supposes that he knows anything, he has not yet ^(F)known as he ought to know;

 ³but if anyone loves God, he ^(G)is known by Him.

1 Corinthians 8:1-3

In this letter to the Corinthians, Paul is talking about how our knowledge of food freedom (that we're free to eat anything) can be a stumbling block to those with less knowledge.  Many new Christians at that time were getting used to the freedom Christ provides but many were still stuck on tradition.  They wanted to break free but it will take time to move on from all the Jewish rules and regulations.  Paul was warning believers not to put a heavy yoke upon them.  If they were still stuck on a tradition, honor God by not forcing them right away to change.  We must take each person and walk them through the transformation, hand in hand, never pushed.

Not being Jewish or even coming from a Catholic (or very traditional) church, I don't have the same experiences to focus on.  Yes, I was a Catholic and know about some of the traditions but not enough to really develop a lifestyle around. But what I take from this lesson is that we're all a work in progress and our missteps should not be taken as opportunity to strike but an opportunity to grow stronger and more faithful.  I think about a child learning to walk.  At first the child cannot even stand but after a while he'll get up on 2 feet and eventually wobble from here to there.  Without Paul's advice, we could criticize for not being able to run fast but that's not the nurturing, loving God we know.  I need to be patient with each person like how God is patient with each of us.

In my heart today I feel restless and very impatient; almost a little angry.  This is because my prayers to have a child has once again have gone unanswered.  My wife spoke to me the other day to trust Him, no matter what on not rely on human methods... she's absolutely right and I'm convicted.  I know I need to trust Him but like that little child learning to walk I need to learn to walk in faith.  So many things are easily given to me that I'm fat and lazy with my faith.  I need to pray harder and harder with persistence but patience, knowing He, the King of all will always be there.  And if the answer continues to be no I must find peace in that.

Father God, thank You for being my Creator.  You know every single cell in my body and my thoughts.  Please Lord, I beg that You transform my heart and faith to align with Yours.  Mold Your servant into a vessel You can use for kingdom works.  In the precious name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen!