ROMANS 14: PURSUE PEACE AND BUILD OTHERS UP

 

¹⁹ So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. Romans 14:19

 

Christianity is not only about what we believe or what we are free to do; it is also about how our lives affect other people.

 

I. Pursue the Things That Make for Peace

¹⁹ So then let us pursue what makes for peace

Peace requires intentional effort.

We should avoid arguments and divisions.

Instead of always trying to prove that we are right, we should seek what brings unity.

Jesus calls His followers to be peacemakers.

 

II. Build One Another Up

..and for mutual upbuilding.

Mutual upbuilding means helping, encouraging, and strengthening one another so that everyone grows and becomes better.

Our words can either encourage someone or discourage them.

Encourage people who are struggling

Help others to grow in their relationship with Christ.

We should use our actions responsibly, remembering that other believers may be watching our example

 

III. Put Spiritual Growth Above Personal Preference

Romans 14 deals with differences among believers.

Not every disagreement should become a division.

We should be willing to sacrifice personal preferences for the good of others.

Christian maturity means asking, “How will my choice affect my brother or sister?”

Romans 14:19 gives us two responsibilities: Pursue peace and build others up.

 

Reflection:

“Does my life bring peace? Does my life build others up?”

Let us intentionally choose our words and actions so that the people around us become stronger, encouraged, and closer to Christ because of our example.

 

Prayer:

“Lord, help us to pursue peace and to build one another up. Give us wisdom to speak with love, patience to understand others, and humility to value relationships more than winning arguments. May our words and actions bring unity, encouragement, and peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

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PAS PAULA - JCRC CAMBODIA