Devotion: Romans 14:19 

Romans 14:19  Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. 

We conclude our month learning about peace with a reminder that everything we do should lead to peace and mutual edification. Paul was addressing a church community that was mixed and who were arguing over little things like eating meat or holy days. Some of the believers in the Roman church followed strict routines while others lived with total abandon. Paul was reminding them that their personal choices did not define who they were in God’s kingdom.

As believers, we must make an active and intentional effort to build relationships within our community that are harmonious and help one another grow spiritually. Arguing over minor opinions and preferences was irrelevant in the greater scheme of things and did nothing to help their spiritual growth.

We need to remember an important point – peace does not just happen. It doesn’t happen by accident. It requires us to put in effort. It requires us to work hard. We must exercise self-restraint. And over everything we need to choose love instead of trying to prove our point or win disagreements. Building up one another was more important than trying to be “right.”

Paul said let us do whatever leads to mutual edification, to make every effort. He was reminding us that we need to make every effort, not just some effort. And every action would be meant to strengthen another person in their faith. We have to set aside our personal rights and freedoms if those behaviors and actions hurt fellow believers. We are not to be the cause of division within our community.

Today, and every day after, let’s make every effort to build one another up and strengthen the faith of others. Let’s set aside ourselves – our personal need for edification or gain, and put their needs ahead of our own. And in everything we do, strive for peace and balance within your home, your life, your community, and your church.

Prayer: Lord, Help me to set aside my needs and desires and focus on the needs of others. Let me build their faith and strengthen them in their walk with You. Give us peace and joy each day. Amen

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