June 14
The Standard of
Reconciliation
Romans 14:19
Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
Daily Steps
Disagreements and differences of opinion are inevitable within any community, including the Church. This verse provides the new believer with the ultimate goal and standard for navigating these differences: make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
The peace in this standard is found in its dual focus:
The Priority of Peace: The command is to "make every effort" to do what leads to peace (Harmony, Day 132). This means that maintaining relational peace and unity must always be prioritized over winning a debate or insisting on personal preference, especially on non-essential matters (the context of Romans 14).
The Goal of Edification: The effort must also lead to "mutual edification" (building one another up). True peace is not passive silence; it is an active state where communication (Day 164) and action result in the spiritual growth of the other person. If your actions are tearing down, they are not leading to genuine peace.
The Result is Unity: When both sides of a disagreement strive for peace and the edification (spiritual growth) of the other, conflict is transformed. Instead of dividing the body, the disagreement is used as an opportunity to demonstrate love (Day 162), which ultimately strengthens the unity of the Church.
Your church peace is secured by intentional striving. By dedicating your energy to peace and mutual edification, you honor Christ and contribute to the harmonious fellowship of believers.
Reflective Question
Is there a current disagreement in your Christian community where you have prioritized your opinion over peace and edification? What is one specific action you can take today that visibly shows you are making every effort to build up the other person instead of proving your point?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my selfish desire to be right and my failure to prioritize harmony. I pray for the discipline to make every effort to do what leads to peace.
Help me to transform my conflicts by focusing on mutual edification rather than personal victory. May my life be a contribution to the harmonious unity of Your Church. Amen.
