Romans 14:1 Welcome with open arms fellow believers who don't see things the way you do. And don't jump all over them every time they do or say something you don't agree with- even when it seems that they are strong on opinions but weak in the faith department. Remember, they have their own history to deal with. Treat them gently.
The title of this chapter in Romans is, "Cultivating Good Relationships." The entire chapter is so good but this first verse really hit home for me. We can be so opinionated and pushy about scripture, life issues, decisions of right and wrong, etc. that we forget that we don't know everything and neither do the people around us. God also calls his people to different things at different points in life that may or may not fit the lifestyle of others. He is a personal God, and the things that we will be called to do or not do will be different than the things that he calls or does not call those around us to do. It also says in verse 11, "Eventually, we're all going to end up kneeling side by side in the place of judgment, facing God. Your critical and condescending ways aren't going to improve your position there one bit." Ultimately, when we come to the end of this life on earth, we will stand before God and not each other. We are all in relationship with people that have differing opinions from our own and that is OK. There is a place for accountability and healthy, loving correction but it's time we embrace the differences of others instead of criticizing and condemning our brothers and sisters in Christ.
No comments:
Post a Comment