Let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. – Romans 14:19
Have you made inner peace a primary goal? Jesus’ life was not always outwardly peaceful, particularly with the religious leaders’ constant criticism and during His crucifixion. The apostle Paul’s life was also full of trouble. But Paul wrote, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus“ (Philippians 4:6-7). He also advised believers to pray for peace in their community: “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way” (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
In building up others, Hebrews 10:24-25 states, “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” When you meet together with believers, make it a point not to simply attend but interact with your brothers and sisters and encourage them. Sometimes just a smile can be encouraging, or a text letting others know you are thinking of them.
Pray for peace for your family, friends, communities, country, and the world, asking God to use you as a peacemaker (Matthew 5:9). Encourage the people God has put in your life, and receive encouragement from them and from God Himself. In these challenging times, everyone can use some encouragement! Pray that Christians among the members of Congress take the time to encourage one another.
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: Proverbs 11:23-31
The desire of the righteous ends only in good,
the expectation of the wicked in wrath.
24 One gives freely, yet grows all the richer;
another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.
25 Whoever brings blessing will be enriched,
and one who waters will himself be watered.
26 The people curse him who holds back grain,
but a blessing is on the head of him who sells it.
27 Whoever diligently seeks good seeks favor,
but evil comes to him who searches for it.
28 Whoever trusts in his riches will fall,
but the righteous will flourish like a green leaf.
29 Whoever troubles his own household will inherit the wind,
and the fool will be servant to the wise of heart.
30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life,
and whoever captures souls is wise.
31 If the righteous is repaid on earth,
how much more the wicked and the sinner!
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.
