This should keep us focused on learning with purpose. We have a job to do when we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior of our lives and that is to shine like Christ so others are impacted. We are reminded of this in verse 13 which says, “So let’s stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall.” As we mature we should be growing and learning what gives glory to God and we should be thinking before we say something. I truly believe the slower we are to speak the more we are letting the Spirit lead us and the better decisions we will make.
We are called to live like and in Christ, well He has sent us the Spirit to lead us and lead us to do right. So we must be ready to listen and follow what He shows us. Verse 17 goes on to say, “For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Our lives are not supposed to be trial free but the Spirit fills us with goodness and peace and joy when we listen and live it out.
At the end of verse 23 it says something I think we all should put to memory as we focus on living a life that glorifies God. “…For you are not following your convictions. If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning.” Opening God’s word and listening to the Spirit are two major guides God has given us to be fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ who is the only way to the Father. We have an obligation to help others find the amazing gift that we receive when we believe and accept Jesus.
I want to end with Romans chapter 15 verses 1-2 to help remind us of our outward focus. They say, “We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord.” Amen