Live and Let Live

Posted on by Dennis Foote

It’s clear that we don’t live to honor ourselves, and we don’t die to honor ourselves.

Romans 14:7 GW

Living for the Lord frees us from living according to worldly ways and measures. Everything in this world will disappear, so don’t make temporary things your god.

The rising and setting of the Sun, the food we eat, these are inconsequential compared to knowing and walking with God.

When we honor God with our lives, we affirm that the Lord has all authority in Heaven and on Earth. One of our goals as Christ followers is to persuade others to follow God as well. We do this gently and respectfully and always lead by example.

We do not attempt to force others to live according to our own personal convictions. That would be disrespectful, abusive and unwise. We don’t try to control other people or their opinions because the Holy Spirit has given us understanding and self-control.

Our walk with God is our walk with God. Live and let live.

If we live, we honor the Lord, and if we die, we honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.

Romans 14:8 GW

Life is meant to be lived with God. Fellowship with other believers is meant to be harmonious, unified and uplifting.

We get into trouble when we disobey the Lord. What’s the appropriate thing to do? Repent of disobedience and then do whatever the Holy Spirit leads you to do. He won’t lead you to do something that is unloving or violates what’s revealed in Scripture.

Prayer Points

  • Ask the Lord to reveal where you have been trying to make others live according to your own personal convictions.
  • Ask for forgiveness and make amends where appropriate.
  • Ask the Lord to lead you in His love to be a good example and a peacemaker.

Father in Heaven, we thank You for the truth that You have revealed in Scripture. Help us to use it appropriately to correct our own lives and not use it to bash or judge others. You have given us the ministry of reconciliation. Empower us by Your Spirit to do Your will in Your way. Help us to be patient, humble and kind towards everyone. May our lives always bring You glory. Amen.

Welcome people who are weak in faith, but don’t get into an argument over differences of opinion.

Romans 14:1 GW

For further study: Read Romans 14.