“But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse. But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.“
— 1 Corinthians 8:8-9 KJV
Reflection on Today's Verse
Here’s the truth: God isn’t grading you based on what’s on your plate. Whether you’re vegan, carnivore, or somewhere in between—it’s not what brings you closer to Him. What does matter is how you treat the people around you, especially those who are still figuring things out.
You might be spiritually strong, confident in your freedom—but strength without kindness? That’s just noise. If your choices, even innocent ones, confuse or hurt someone else’s walk with God, then that “freedom” isn’t love. And without love, freedom turns selfish.
Real maturity isn’t about having the right answers. It’s about being willing to step back, not because you have to, but because someone else matters more.
Grace always leans toward others. Always.
Author
Alona Smith writes like she sketches—quick strokes, bold colors, no eraser. She ran a small-town art studio before VerseForTheDay invited her to swap charcoal for chapters, yet paint still flecks her keyboard. Dawn finds her barefoot on the porch, swirling watercolors across a travel Bible, letting sunrise seep into the margins. Neighbors wave as she bikes to the farmers’ market, basket rattling with sunflowers and Psalms scribbled on kraft-paper price tags.Alona trusts that Scripture behaves like clay: press your palms in, and a vessel appears where empty air once lived. Afternoon workshops with foster teens prove the point; they mold hope into coffee mugs, then watch steam carry it forward.Diplomas? Only framed sketches of hands lifted in worship. Awards? A dog-eared gratitude list taped to her fridge. Open her reflections when cynicism scratches—she’ll slide a brush into your grip and show you light hiding in the smear of everyday color.