How can we serve Christ in ways that are "pleasing to God" today? Anchoring Truth from Romans 14:18 “For whoever thus serves Christ is pleasing to God and approved by men” (Romans 14:18). What “thus” Means—Contextual Anchors • v. 17: The kingdom of God is “righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” • v. 19: “So then, let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” Serving Christ in ways that please God, therefore, revolves around righteousness, peace, joy, and edification. Heart Postures God Declares Pleasing • Righteous Character – daily choosing what aligns with God’s Word (Psalm 119:11; James 1:22). • Peace-Making – refusing quarrels, fostering harmony (Matthew 5:9; Hebrews 12:14). • Spirit-Born Joy – gratitude and glad trust regardless of circumstance (Philippians 4:4; Nehemiah 8:10). • Edifying Others – building rather than tearing down (Ephesians 4:29; 1 Thessalonians 5:11). Practical Ways to Serve Christ Today Righteousness • Guard integrity in work, finances, media, relationships (Proverbs 11:3; Colossians 3:23-24). • Stand for truth graciously—speak God’s standards without contempt (Ephesians 4:15). Peace • Settle disputes quickly (Matthew 5:23-24). • Use social media to bless, not provoke (Romans 12:18). Joy • Begin and end the day with thanksgiving lists (Psalm 92:1-2). • Sing or listen to Christ-centered worship that lifts the heart (Ephesians 5:19). Edification • Volunteer gifts in the local church—teaching, mercy, helps, administration (1 Peter 4:10). • Offer intentional encouragement texts, calls, notes (Proverbs 16:24). Guarding the Conscience of Others • Avoid flaunting liberties that could trip a weaker believer (Romans 14:13). • Choose love over preference in disputable matters—diet, days, entertainment (1 Corinthians 8:9-13). Living for God’s “Well Done” • Remember Christ’s example of pleasing the Father (John 8:29). • Aim for God’s commendation above human applause (Galatians 1:10). • Keep eternity in view: “The Lord will reward each one for whatever good he does” (Ephesians 6:8). Daily Checkpoints • Am I acting from faith? “Everything that is not of faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). • Does this choice promote righteousness, peace, and joy? • Will it build up fellow believers? Summing Up Serve Christ today by pursuing Spirit-enabled righteousness, practicing peace, overflowing with joy, and intentionally building others up. Such service, rooted in faith and love, is assured by Scripture to be “pleasing to God and approved by men.” |
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