From Him and For Him

Scripture Focus: 1 Corinthians 8:6

“Yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live…” (NIV)

Devotional Thought

People often chase identity — Who am I? Why do I matter? Knowing ourselves has become the idol of the post-modern time. Paul gives a simple answer to our search for identity and meaning: you come from the one God, and your life is for Him.

Interpretation

Corinth was spiritually crowded — filled with idols, temples, and competing claims. Paul highlights the unique relationship between God the Father and Jesus Christ, emphasizing that there is one God, the Father, from whom all things come and to whom we live, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things exist and through whom we also live. This verse affirms the unity and distinct roles within the Godhead, showing God as the ultimate source of all things while Jesus is the agent through whom creation and redemption flow. Jesus serves as the mediator who makes it possible for believers to live in relationship with the one true God, without diminishing his divine status. This view appreciates the cooperative dynamic in salvation, where God's plan includes human participation through faith in Jesus Christ.

Contemporary Relevance

Our culture offers countless identity markers — achievement, appearance, politics, tribe, or performance. Many of these are embraced with the enthusiasm of idols. But Scripture centers identity in the one God who created you, redeemed you, and calls you into partnership in His Kingdom. You live for Him not out of duty but out of love and belonging. Confessing one God clarifies who you are and why you live.

Quote of the Day

“The oneness of God anchors the dignity of every person and the unity of all creation.” — Lamin Sanneh

Reflection Question

Which competing identity do you feel pressured to adopt, and how does remembering that you are “from” and “for” the one God reorient you?

Prayer Prompt

Pray for a renewed sense of identity grounded in the God who made you and calls you His own.

• Copyright 2026 by Steven Chapman