How do I make godly decisions when my needs or preferences clash with someone else's, especially someone who is important to me, such as my spouse or parents? Using the principle of edification over gratification from 1 Corinthians 8, we learn when to put others’ spiritual growth (e.g., avoiding scandal with meat offered to idols) above self-interest, and when to LEAN IN to self-interest (e.g., doom scrolling).

Sonja shares her contraception dilemma, balancing freedom and legalism when faced with her husband’s salvation, guided by prayer and the Catechism’s call to dignity (1738). Discover how to set boundaries (e.g., skipping family Christmas) and use Ignatius’ discernment rules for mature Christian liberty. 

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LOVE the Word® is a Bible study method based on Mary’s own practice: lectio without the Latin. Get the book based on Sonja’s method in the right margin, How to Pray Like Mary.  

L | Listen (Receive the Word via audio or video.)

O | Observe (Connect the passage to your life and recent events.)

In what situation has the Holy Spirit spoken to you through this episode about choosing between edification and gratification? What do you want to say to Him about that?

V | Verbalize (Pray about your thoughts and emotions.)

Remembering that He loves you and that you are in His presence, talk to God about the particulars of your O – Observe step. You may want to write your reflections in your LOVE the Word® journal. Or, get a free journal page and guide in the right-hand margin.

E | Entrust (Rest in the Word.)

Our Lady, Seat of Wisdom, with the Holy Spirit your Beloved Spouse, lend me your wisdom and illumine my heart and mind so I may become free to glorify God by reaching my full potential.  Amen +

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What We Discussed | Show Notes

Overview:

Minutes 00:00-12:00 – Spirit vs flesh; others over self 

Minutes 12:01-24:00 – social media scrolling?; meat on Fridays?

Minutes 24:01-36:00 – when your boundaries offend; parents; contraception  

Minutes 36:01-48:00 – Catholics and non-Catholics in decision making; evaluating Christian witness 

Transcript

Transcripts and CC are now provided automatically within both the audio and video players.