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Though Israel’s situation is dire, they need to see it all through God’s perspective. That perspective is that this current affliction is not the whole story, but that God will again restore them. They must trust, turn, and follow Him, even though in exile.
God set us free from the power, penalty, and (in heaven) from the presence of sin. Yet, we often use that freedom in ways that do not honor God. Paul wraps up the discussion of meat sacrificed to idols by giving warnings, possible scenarios, and pointing to our ultimate purpose: glorifying God.
Just as Paul called them to give up their right to eat meat, so he shows he gave up his right to demand pay. He did this so that the gospel would be advanced. In fact, he always considers the best way to advance the gospel.
We often forget the power God has given to words, but “death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Realizing the potential power of words, we must learn when to be silent and when to speak.