Let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.

Romans 14:13-19, Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean. For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died. So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.

The particular problem of meat offered to idols is not really a problem that we have to deal with today. But the principles still apply, for there are those things that we find acceptable that may harm another believer. It might be that exercising my own freedom will harm someone who doesn’t have my own level of faith. Even though I am fully convinced that having a glass of wine with dinner is perfectly acceptable, I am to be sensitive to the faith of those who may be offended. Am I willing to lay aside personal preferences in order to build up His kingdom in a particular situation?

Open our eyes to what is best for others in every situation that we may pursue peace and build others up in Your kingdom!

ESV Lectionary: http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/devotions/bcp/?date=2009-05-15