Romans 14:18: For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men.
Not the externals, but the eternals must be first in our lives: righteousness, peace, and joy. Where do they come from? The Holy Spirit of God at work in our lives (see Rom. 5:1–2). If each believer would yield to the Spirit and major in a godly life, we would not have Christians fighting with each other over minor matters. Spiritual priorities are essential to harmony in the church. 1
Application
- If we serve Christ, we will serve others. Our motive should always be to please Christ supremely. (You will never be able to please some people, but God is always pleased with our humility and dependance upon Him.)
- Do you seek the approval of people more than simply seeking to please God?
Prayer
Lord, I never want to be out of fellowship with You.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.