You Can Do It...But Should You?
“All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful.” — 1 Corinthians 6:12
6/21/20262 min read
One of the beautiful gifts we receive through Jesus is freedom. His birth, life, death, and resurrection released us from the weight of the Old Testament Law. We are no longer bound, trying to earn God’s approval through rules or rituals. Christ secured that for us.
But in the early church, some believers misunderstood this freedom. In Galatians, Paul had to correct people who believed that being free in Christ meant they could do anything they wanted and this is where many Christians struggle today. We hear messages about consuming alcohol, the language we use, or the people we hang out with. Some of us grew up believing that certain music or movies automatically made us “less saved.” But Paul responded to this dilemma with wisdom. He said, yes, you are free to do whatever you want, but everything you do is not beneficial for your walk with God (1 Corinthians 6:12).
In Psalm 1:1 we get a picture of how influential the world around us can be. It says, “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers.” Notice the progression. First, you walk with something, then you stand in it, and eventually you’re comfortable enough to sit in it. That is how subtle spiritual drift can be.
Thankfully, the Holy Spirit helps us make wise choices. Before you make decisions about habits, entertainment, relationships, or environments, pause and ask:
Is it helpful? Does this strengthen my walk with God, my peace, my character, or my spiritual growth?
Could it control me? Does this habit, relationship, or entertainment have more influence over me than I want to admit
Does this feed my spirit or my flesh? Everything you consume shapes you. Music, conversations, media, and environments all leave an imprint on your heart.
Would this confuse or weaken someone watching my walk? Your freedom should never become someone else’s stumbling block. Scripture teaches that causing someone to stumble means confusing a new believer, tempting someone who is weak, encouraging someone to violate their conscience, damaging someone’s faith, or sending mixed messages about holiness (1 Corinthians 8:9).
God is not trying to restrict you. He is trying to protect you. He knows what drains you, distracts you, and derails you. He also knows what grows you, strengthens you, and aligns you with your purpose.
Your choices preach louder than your words. Your habits reveal your heart. Your freedom is a gift, but it is also a ministry.
So yes, you can do it. But with God’s wisdom, you will know whether you should.