Romans 14:19-23; 15:1-13
Through prayer, Bible study, seeking mature counsel, and careful consideration we should develop personal convictions about how we live. God, who lovingly created us by design, has thoughts about the decisions we make and the lifestyle we choose. From this, we will find personal freedom. If a fellow believer thinks that what we feel free to do is wrong, we should not value our freedom as more valuable than our friend. This is an open conversation within a church family. Shared love includes self-control. Romans 15 directs me to be helpful and encourage faith in others. As we wait to see God’s promises fulfilled, we can take hope and encouragement from the Scriptures. As you trust in God, you may find yourself overflowing with joy, peace, and a confident hope. Paul took seriously his personal responsibility to pray for them. He asked God to meet their trust with an outpouring this peaceful confident hope.