Honor God with everything we are

So often we let personal preference, peer pressure, and concerns about the celebration of certain days, especially holidays, have a divisive effect on our Christian relationships. Bottom line: we're not to try to press our opinion or position on anyone else. We're not to judge another because he doesn't celebrate a special day to the Lord and we're not to judge another because she does celebrate special days. This is a matter of personal conviction that revolves around our desire to please the Lord and to honor him in ways we feel are appropriate. Let's not be so insecure that we have to do what everyone else does or force anyone else to do as we prefer. Instead, let's remember the right angle to take with all things: honor God with everything we are and consider the needs of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.

— Romans 14:5

Dear Lord, please forgive us for judging people based on human observances and our preference about those observances. As for us, please give us courage to honor Christ according to our convictions, but also please give us the wisdom to do so in ways that bless your people and that do not cause division. We know we will never fully succeed at this goal, but we do believe that, with your help, we will find ways to bring you the glory due you and to also maintain our fellowship with your children. Purify our hearts in this matter and guide us in the way we need to go. In Jesus' name. Amen.