1 Corinthians 10: 23 says "Everything is permissible"--but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible"--but not everything is constructive. (NIV) New King James says, all things are lawful, but not all things edify.

In keeping with the context of this scripture, we must be willing to think outside of just ourselves. As Christians, our choices should edify the body of Christ. As wives, our choices should edify us, our spouses, and our families. But how does this unfold in everyday life?

For me, it means that when opportunities arise, I must consider how my repsonses to those opportunities will effect others. I recently received an invitation to a party. It sounds like fun. And I could use some fun. But the reality is, between preparing for a writer's conference, caring for a sick child, updating my website, creating a One Sheet for my CPA, and giving my best in my day job as a Clinical Massage Therapist, I'm physically exhausted.

What would benefit me the most right now is physical rest. While attending a fun party sounds . . . well, fun, the truth is, I don't have the physical energy. So, though it's permissible, it would not be beneficial. An exhausted woman is no good to anyone. Not her husband, not her family, and not the women she is passionate about encouraging everyday. So, after careful consideration of my party invitation; regrets it is.

If I were simply emotionally exhausted, it would better benefit me, my husband, my family, and you, precious readers, to attend a fun party and re-charge. And that's how it works for me.

How about you? Do you pause to consider if what you're considering, though permissible, is beneficial?