As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions.
– Romans 14:1
When you watch a group of toddlers, it is usually a matter of moments until an argument breaks out over a toy, a cookie, or an invasion of personal space. Little immature minds can only see what they want and what makes them happy. The apostle Paul exhorted readers that God desires righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, in all stages of spiritual growth (Romans 14:17).
Paul’s main focus in Romans 14 concerns the rituals people use to please God, generally concerning foods and observances. He writes, “Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him” (Romans 14:3).
Paul says whatever you do, do it unto the Lord, for you belong to Him (Romans 14:8). Outward things do not matter to the Lord nearly as much as a loving attitude and character. “So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding” (Romans 14:19).
Intercede for the nation as Easter approaches, so that the eyes of citizens and government officials alike will be opened to the truth of the Gospel. Pray that believers will practice lives of righteousness, peace, and joy.
Comments