“Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak” (1 Corinthians 8:9).

We live in a culture that is very conscious of individual rights. Our American Constitution even includes a Bill of Rights. We American citizens are grateful for that! Those rights protect us from government intrusion into our liberty as Americans. Our rights, both spiritual and political, protect our freedom.

As Christians we are free from the bondages of religion. Paul, in his letters, repeatedly defended our spiritual liberty from the legalism some try to add to our Christian faith. Still, believers have another principle that guides our conduct. We value the feelings of others. Paul wrote, in his letter to the Philippians, “In humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others” (Philippians 2:3-4).

We certainly value our rights and want no one to limit our freedom. But, we also understand that what we do will affect others. It is important to keep “the interests of others” in mind as we make our decisions. That is not only a kind way to live, it is the Christian way.