A profitability study can reveal surprising things about a specific market, product, or business. It can show that a “cash-cow division” or “promising market” may have changed to something less valuable. At the same time, it may confirm the validity of a current strategy, or point to the need for changes. Now think about this question, “If you viewed your time as something to be invested, what would a profitability study reveal?” Paul declared this:

“All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be mastered by anything.” – 1 Corinthians 6:12 NASB

Permissible and profitable are not the same. There are many activities, relationships, and things that are basically “neutral” regarding sin, but low in spiritual value too. Even worse, they may be harmful to others such as young and/or marginal believers. Personal habits and social routines can speak volumes, while doing damage to growth and creditability. If a disciple wants to push the envelope concerning acceptable behavior, there are some questions worth asking:

• “Why is there a desire to do so?”
• “What will be gained?”
• “Will Christ be honored by it and how?”

Are you willing to prayerfully conduct a profitability study on your time, habits and routines? “Not all things are profitable…”