The Narrow Way

Romans 14:17 is a verse nestled in Paul’s discourse on Christian liberty and the need for unity in diversity within the body of Christ.

This verse invites us, as believers, to embrace the priorities of the Kingdom of God in our daily lives.

Romans 14 addresses matters of conscience and diversity within the early Christian community.

In verse 17, Paul encapsulates the essence of Kingdom living, emphasizing that the Christian life is not defined by external rituals but by the pursuit of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Romans 14:17:

“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”

This verse provides a concise definition of the Kingdom of God, directing our attention to the qualities that characterize true Christian living.

Application to Our Daily Lives:

1. Shifting Our Focus from Externalities to Essentials: The first step in applying Romans 14:17 is to shift our focus from external rituals or disputes to the essentials of Kingdom living. It prompts us to recognize that our Christian journey is not defined by outward practices but by the internal transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit.

2. Pursuing Righteousness: The pursuit of righteousness is a foundational aspect of Kingdom living. Applying Romans 14:17 involves actively seeking to align our lives with God’s standards of righteousness. This includes living justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with our God (Micah 6:8).

3. Embracing a Lifestyle of Peace: Kingdom living is marked by a commitment to peace. This involves not only avoiding unnecessary conflicts but actively pursuing peace in our relationships. Applying Romans 14:17 means being peacemakers, fostering unity within the body of Christ and promoting reconciliation in a broken world.

4. Cultivating Joy in the Holy Spirit: The joy mentioned in Romans 14:17 is not contingent on external circumstances but is rooted in the Holy Spirit. Cultivating joy in the Holy Spirit involves maintaining a vibrant relationship with God, relying on His strength, and finding contentment in His presence regardless of external circumstances.

5. Living as Ambassadors of the Kingdom: Believers are called to live as ambassadors of the Kingdom of God. Applying Romans 14:17 means that our lives should reflect the values of righteousness, peace, and joy. Our interactions, decisions, and attitudes become a testimony to the transformative power of Christ’s Kingdom.

Romans 14:17 provides a powerful framework for Kingdom living.

By shifting our focus from externalities to essentials, pursuing righteousness, embracing a lifestyle of peace, cultivating joy in the Holy Spirit, and living as ambassadors of the Kingdom, we can apply the profound truths of this verse to our daily lives.

May our pursuit of Kingdom priorities bring glory to God and bear witness to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in us and through us.