1 Corinthians 10:31

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” ESV 1 Corinthians 10:31

“Daddy needs one more thing on his plate.” That was the tongue in cheek answer that my wife gave to my two teenagers after they inquired as to why I would be writing some articles for the Franklin Free Press. And I have to admit, as usual, she’s right. I really don’t need one more thing on my plate right now. But then again, who does?

Balancing time and passions is not one of my strong points you see. Way too many things interest me (theology, bicycling and hiking to name a few) and there seems to be so little time. Melisa knows this all too well, but after 21 years of marriage, she should be getting to know me pretty well I suppose.

At any rate, God has blessed me with a very understanding and supportive family. Melisa, Chris and Ashley support me (and my passions) more often than not and it appears that this time is no different.

Hence we begin with an article about my car tag. Yes, my car tag; ICORX 31. I’ve been asked about my tag countless times. It’s just difficult enough so that many folks need a hint in order to figure it out. Sometimes when I’m asked about its meaning, I’ll simply say it’s a Bible verse and hope that they figure it out on their own. But when the occasion permits, I’ll quote the verse that you see above.

Why blaze a reminder of Paul’s words to the Corinthians on a car tag? For one, it is a constant reminder to me that I live my life coram Deo; before God. So do you by the way. We all live our lives before God. And as a Christian, I should be constantly aware that no action escapes His notice and that every choice I make should be a conscious effort on my part to honor and glorify God.

Paul’s words to the Corinthians were in response to an argument that had flared up about whether it was proper to buy and eat food that may have been offered to idols. Paul tells them that they were not seeing the forest for the trees! You see, their decision to eat, or not eat, should have flowed from a heart intent on honoring and glorifying God; not from a list of dos and don’ts. And not just decisions about food mind you, but decisions about every aspect of their daily lives; work, school, music, hobbies, the list goes on. Do your daily decisions reflect a heart intent on honoring and glorifying God?

I wish my reminder (tag) was failsafe, but it’s not. The reminder does not always produce the desired actions on my part. I still take the wrong path too many times. But my daily desire and prayer is that I’ll make choices that honor and glorify God. Won’t you join me?

-Ken Askew