Romans 14:19: Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.

This is a twofold exhortation. To “follow after the things which make for peace” is to eagerly pursue this course of action. The believer is to make a definite effort to avoid the use of food or any physical thing which offends a Christian brother. This would be the negative aspect of the exhortation. The positive aspect is to press toward the mark of spiritual values: righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. These are the things which build up the believer. 1

Application

  • What do you do with consistency that builds other believers up spiritually?
  • Are you known as a peace maker or a trouble maker? Are you known for the encouraging words that you speak or for a critical attitude that you bring?

Prayer

Lord, help me to pursue the things that please You.

1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (Romans 9-16) (electronic ed., Vol. 43). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

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Tommy Blumberg

Tommy Blumberg

Tommy Blumberg was ordained as a Calvary Chapel pastor in 1985, where he served as an assistant pastor at Calvary Fellowship, in Seattle. In 1992, Pastor Tom, his wife Pam, and their three daughters moved to Bellingham and began a Bible study, which led to the founding of Calvary Chapel Northwest. Tom blogs regularly at TommyBlumberg.com.