Building Others Up

So then, let us pursue what makes for peace and for building up one another. Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. For although all things are clean, it is wrong to cause anyone to stumble by what you eat. It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything that causes your brother to stumble. The faith you have, keep to yourself before God. Blessed is the one who does not judge himself by what he approves. But the man who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not do so from faith, and whatever is not from faith is sin.  -ROMANS 14:19-23 NET 

Trying to ensure your actions lead to peace can be a daunting task. You have inner conflicts you are trying to conquer, personal problems to prevail over, and staggering struggles to resolve. Still, God asks you to be courteous and to care for others.  

Take a minute to calm down. Go to the place where you feel most at ease and relaxed. Get yourself into a comfortable position. Close your eyes. Breathe easy. Imagine the tension in your body unwinding and the anxiety in your head and heart slowly decreasing.  

Remember, God has called you to bring peace and to build other people up by encouraging them. This might look different for each person. Like pushing a square peg into a round hole, you cannot fit into the role God has called you to without His assistance. Don't lose your heart; lay it instead at the feet of Jesus.  

Although this objective can be tough, God has already provided all you need to accomplish it and to do so well. God, who began a good work in you, will carry it through to completion. Try your best to live in harmony with everyone and always be working toward improvement. To do things that not only entertain but enlighten as well. Press onward toward the goal that is Christ Jesus, and you will be a blessing to all. 

PRAYER:  

God, I praise You because You always finish what You start. I worship You for the power of Your Word that transforms and renews our minds. I sing praises to Your name, for You hold the universe in the palm of Your hand. I worship You because You work out all things for the good of those who love You. Lord, there are relationships where I struggle to live in peace. I acknowledge that I often grow weary and discouraged. I sometimes want to give up. But Lord, help me remember that I can always turn to You for strength and courage to make peace. God, thank You for guiding me through seasons of turmoil and insecurity. Thank You for giving me strength to lean on You in my weaker moments. Your Word says that You are good and Your mercy endures from generation to generation. Help me to create peace and value beauty in my own generation. God, help me to never give up on building healthy relationships that honor You. Even if my efforts seem futile, please help me to not give up. Help me push past the discord and disagreements. Help me choose peace and joy. Help me reach my full potential and love others with a radical love. Amen. 

This is an excerpt from Pray: Daily Moments to Quiet Your Mind and Center Your Soul – a devotional now available on DaySpring.com. Shop all books, journals, and devotions from DaySpring here.