Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 9

In reading these verses you might think that Paul's instructions here only apply to those called into ministry.  We all have likely heard the end of this passage and it's metaphor of running a race, but do you think about what Paul is saying here on a daily basis? 

Paul first makes a case for our freedom to do what we choose.  We get to choose who we talk to, our attitude in different situation, how we spend our time and our money.  By the worlds standards we have a lot that we can choose from to do.  By God's standards we have less, but Paul declares in these verses that he has chosen to use even fewer of his God given rights so that the gospel would not be hindered at all.  

Paul goes on to explain that in his freedom he chooses to become like those he shares the gospel with.  He does this not because he has to but because he desires the smoothest path to share the gospel. 

Paul finishes this chapter with instructions for being self-disciplined.  Which for Paul he really is just saying, "I practice what I preach."

So here is my question, When you are making even small decisions during your day are you thinking how they might effect the path in which you will share the gospel with someone?  We are free to make whatever choices we would like in life.  This includes choosing to not do things if it will benefit the kingdom.