By 1 Corinthians 6:12 “All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything.
To be dominated by something or someone means that it/they have total dominion over you. This other thing exercises power over you in the sense that it permits you to do this or that. You have no authority over your own body when it comes to that which dominates you.
Paul tells us that there is no way something or someone other than Jesus Christ will have dominion over him. He has been purchased and adopted by God. He has a new master and will never bend the knee to another object or person again. Even though all things are lawful for him to do, not everything he may wish to do is helpful in his quest toward the celestial city. Because it may not be helpful to him, he flat out rejects the possibility of doing it.
I admire the resolve and determination of the Apostle Paul. He is a great example to you and me as we walk our own path toward heaven.
Questions for the kids…
– Are there things or people who seem to dominate you to the point where you do not feel you have control anymore?
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What do you think of the resolve the Apostle Paul makes in this text? Is it something you think would be a good resolve for you to make as well?
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What is the opposite of helpful? If something is not helpful in your personal christian walk, then what is it?
Leading Family Devotions 