Knowledge may be good (though nobody likes a know-it-all!) Knowledge must be balanced with love. Regarding practices not specifically mentioned in the Bible, we must not offend our own consciences, but neither should be encourage other believers to offend theirs. Christian liberty does not mean that we are free to live wicked lives. It simply means that salvation can't be earned by good works. And so we do have liberty, but we also have responsibility. Paul set the example when he said he would forego an activity that would cause a less mature believers to stumble.
Psalm 18:1-34
David sang this song after God rescued him from his enemies and established him as king of Israel.
David compared God's protection in the following ways: (vv. 1-3)
- my rock--it is solid and can't be moved
- my fortress--a place of safety
- my shield--He comes between me and the enemy
- the power that saves me
- my place of safety
David found himself in real trouble--the ropes of death entangled him; floods of destruction swept over him; the grave wrapped its ropes around him; death laid a trap in his path! Have your troubles ever been THAT bad? Well, maybe they seemed that bad! Anyway..."But in my distress I cried out to the Lord; yes, I prayed to my God for help. He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry to him reached his ears." vv.4-8
The following verses (9-15) show God's great strength and mighty power. And this almighty God heard David and rescued him (16-29).
"God's way is perfect. All the Lord's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection....God arms me with strength, and he makes my way perfect." (vv. 31,33)
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