Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. — Romans 14:19

“Make every effort!” That’s not easy at all. But notice where that effort should go: toward peace and helping each other grow. Both sides of this call to action have to do their part. If I want peace for myself, I have to look for it and spread it. If I want to be helped and help others, I have to be open to being helped. In other words, we are part of God’s family and live with other people. He wants us to be in charge of making our spiritual family relationships work. He reminds us that it will take a lot of hard work. But isn’t that the case with every family member? Love means making an effort and caring about other people. When we share our love willingly, however, we’re much more likely to see it coming back to us!

 

Thought

“Make every effort!” That’s not easy at all. But notice where that effort should go: toward peace and helping each other grow. Both sides of this call to action have to do their part. If I want peace for myself, I have to look for it and spread it. If I want to be helped and help others, I have to be open to being helped. In other words, we are part of God’s family and live with other people. He wants us to be in charge of making our spiritual family relationships work. He reminds us that it will take a lot of hard work. But isn’t that the case with every family member? Love means making an effort and caring about other people. When we share our love willingly, however, we’re much more likely to see it coming back to us!

 

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, please forgive me for being selfish and quick to get angry. Stop my bad competitive attitude, which I often show in fights and disagreements with other people in your family. Use your Spirit to give me the strength to see how I can bless and encourage others. In Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.