“I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.”

1 Corinthians 9:22b-23
The prison setting is a challenging place to do ministry. Rules within the prison system affect not only the inmates but also the volunteers. At times, the system is rigid so we volunteers need to be flexible. We won’t compromise our principles or core values, but we may have to adjust our methods. 

When my wife Rose first volunteered at a prison in Michigan, she had to be flexible. After making a request in advance, she was granted permission by the chaplain to bring a musical accompaniment CD for singing. However, once she arrived at the prison, she was not allowed to take the CD in. Rose would need to adjust her plans. She found a hymn book and selected familiar songs to sing. 

Paul wrote to the believers in Corinth about becoming “all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.” He saw the value of being accommodating as much as it was reasonable, doing so “for the sake of the gospel.” Be ready to change, adapt, revise, and adjust your plans for the sake of making Jesus known to others. 



Scripture Focus

1 Corinthians 9:19-23

Insight

Pray for the Spirit to help you discern when adjustments need to be made in order to minister within a rigid system.

Bible In A Year

  • Leviticus 21-22
  • Psalm 57
  • Luke 21

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