The Law Matters, Not Position – 1 Corinthians 7:19
“For neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but keeping the commandments of God.” – 1 Corinthians 7:19
Paul seems to be explaining that status counts for nothing in the church. Those who are circumcised (Jews) and those who are not (Gentiles) matters little in the kingdom of God and heaven. But to keep the commands of God matters much. This also seems to extend to heritage and can be extrapolated to equal, by factor of location/ethnicity, denominations or church bodies. While keeping the commandments of God is essential and does count for something, your nationality, position, status and/or circumstances in life do not.
Lord, you are the maker of all and there is none like you. You created heaven and earth and all that is in them and govern and rule over all. Your will and your plan are perfect and we all do best when we listen and follow your commands and your word and law.
Father, forgive me for not clinging to your word as if it was my last breath – and therefore rendering all of my dependence upon you. Forgive me for placing judgment on those whom I should not judge, for you are their judge and I have far greater sins than those I see in them. Forgive me for ascribing importance to position and race and ethnicity as if it were anything at all. Forgive me for taking advantage of your grace in where I was born and placed and not realizing the immense responsibility it carries.
Thank you, Lord, for revealing to me the truth that is your word. Thank you for loving me enough to give me your commandments and ensuring that I understand the importance of them vs. status, position, ethnicity and more in the kingdom of heaven. Thank you for showing me grace in all that I do and the incredibly arrogance I have shown towards your people and others.
Help me to live in a way that reflects your truth. Help me to obey your commands and teach them to my children. Help me to help others learn to love your law and realize their situation as it pertains to your judgment. Allow me to live in a way that esteems others as greater than me and elevates you above all else in my life or consciousness. Let there be more of you and less of me.