Pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. – Romans 14:19
The word “pursue” implies taking effort and energy. Think of a hunter getting up before dawn, gathering his gear, going to the woods, and putting in miles on foot in pursuit of game. What would happen if believers put as much energy and effort into encouraging one another and establishing peace in the church?
Ironically, the church’s history is filled with violence and hatred, one faction fighting against another. But can this be defined as the church according to Biblical definition? What makes for peace and mutual upbuilding? What is the responsibility of the church? Believers are called to worship and serve God, to encourage each other in faith, to give to the needy, to spread the gospel, to be a strength and support to each other, and to use whatever gifts they have to help other people.
The church is to be salt and light. Salt preserves. What has God called you to do to help preserve the Christian faith throughout generations? Salt adds flavor. Does your faith enrich your life and others’ lives? Salt keeps feet from slipping on ice. Are you helping others to keep from slipping in their faith walk? Salt makes you thirsty. How can you live the Christian life in such a way that it makes people thirsty for what the Lord has given you? Light shines in the darkness to make the way plain. Are you shining His light by your actions for others to see the love Christ has for them? Pray for the church in the United States to be a place of hope, healing, and encouragement for those who need it most.
Today’s Verse: Romans 14:19
So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Matthew 5:2-16
2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
13 “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
