Passage Read: Romans 14-15
Meditation Verses: 15:15-16
Thought
Paul is writing to a group of believers that clearly contains both Jews and Gentiles, and he has written strong words and specific instructions to each group. There is a great temptation for some with personal convictions to insist that others also walk by their convictions. One of the hardest things about being a mixed group is discerning between God's instruction for all and things I have chosen to do in response to God's instruction. So Paul has written things they've heard before and also written clarifying directions, boldly teaching on topics they might think they already know well. It is what he is compelled to do as an apostle of Christ for the Gentiles. And he makes this statement as if reminding them and apologizing to them, and urging them to humbly accept and review and evaluate the things he has brought to their attention.
Application
As I read the Scriptures again and again, they remind me of the same things. As I hear preacher after preacher, I eventually hear things I've already heard before. True humility recognizes that I need such reminders and such encouragement towards godly living. It is most dangerous to think I'm past all that. So whether someone or God's Word seems to call me out for something I think I already know well, I should respond in humility and check myself again. I may need to grow in that area, I'm may need the correction. I would do better to take the chance to evaluate myself, and assume I need the help rather than think I've already arrived at perfection on any point of instruction.