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“What Would You Give Up?”

Thoughts for Today:

A few weeks ago my eleven year old daughter Amanda asked me a question that she and her classmates had been discussing: "If you had to lose one of your five senses (hearing, sight, touch, taste, or smell) which one would you give up?" For me, I thought the answer was easy: If I gave up taste, then I wouldn't have to watch my food intake so carefully. I would lose some weight and be healthier. Why? Because I wouldn't care what I ate -- everything would taste the same. But then I thought, "What about the taste of ice cream on a hot summer night, or the first bite of my wife's cherry pie served hot from the oven? Would I really be willing to give up those sensations?" I am so glad I don't have to make those kinds of choices. I don't want to be without any of my senses -- especially not taste!

In our passage today, Paul's purpose is much the same. He is trying to get the Corinthians to appreciate the gifts God had uniquely given them and to recognize the critical nature of their individual roles -- regardless of their seeming insignificance. And they shouldn't be envious of other more visible parts. Why? Because all believers have a place in the body of Christ. We each have been given a special gift to contribute. Just like every aspect of our physical bodies.

Questions to Ponder:

Are there parts of the body of your church that you think could be eliminated? Although we might feel that way from time to time, I am always amazed at how God uses each and every one of us. Even me. What about you? Have you allowed God to move and mold you into usefulness?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.