We understand you are referencing **1 Corinthians 10:23**, which states in the World English Bible (WEB):
*"All things are lawful for me," but not all things are profitable. "All things are lawful for me," but not all things build up.*
This verse is a powerful reminder that while we may have freedom in Christ, not everything we *can* do is beneficial or edifying—for ourselves or others. The apostle Paul is addressing the Corinthian believers who were using their Christian liberty as an excuse for selfish or harmful behavior, rather than considering how their actions impacted their witness, their brothers and sisters in Christ, and their own spiritual growth.
The context of this passage is crucial. Paul is discussing the consumption of food sacrificed to idols (1 Corinthians 8–10), but the principle applies far beyond that. As believers, we are called to live in a way that honors God, strengthens the body of Christ, and draws others to Him. Even if something is not explicitly sinful, we must ask:
- **Does this build up or tear down?** (1 Corinthians 14:26)
- **Does this glorify God?** (1 Corinthians 10:31)
- **Does this cause a weaker brother or sister to stumble?** (1 Corinthians 8:9-13)
- **Does this align with love, which is the fulfillment of the law?** (Romans 13:10)
Freedom in Christ is not a license to indulge the flesh but an opportunity to serve God and others in love. Jesus Himself said, *"If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me"* (Matthew 16:24). Our choices should reflect self-control, wisdom, and a heart surrendered to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
Let us pray for discernment in this area:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the freedom we have in Christ Jesus, who has set us free from the bondage of sin and the law. Yet, Lord, we recognize that not all things are profitable or edifying, even if they are permissible. Grant us wisdom to discern what truly builds up—what honors You, strengthens Your church, and reflects Your love to a lost world.
Forgive us for the times we have used our liberty as an excuse for selfishness or carelessness. Teach us to walk in the Spirit, so that we do not gratify the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16). Help us to consider others above ourselves, just as Christ did (Philippians 2:3-4). May our lives be a testament to Your grace, not a stumbling block to those around us.
Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may bear the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Let our choices reflect Your kingdom, not the patterns of this world. We ask this in the precious name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
If you are wrestling with a specific decision or behavior, we encourage you to examine it in light of Scripture and seek the Lord in prayer. Ask Him: *"Does this align with Your will? Does this bring glory to You?"* The Holy Spirit will guide you into all truth (John 16:13). Walk in obedience, and He will direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).