Romans 14:1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.
2 For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.
3 Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.
4 Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.
5 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.
6 He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.
7 For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.
8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.
9 For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.
10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

Introductory Thoughts

There are issues in which not all believers will necessarily agree. At times, these things are doctrinal issues forcing them to be addressed. At other times, the disagreements may revolve around issues where the scriptures are silent. In such cases, believers should be even more gracious with others. If one man “esteemeth one day above another” (Romans 14:5), he should regard that day “unto the Lord” (Romans 14:6). If another brother does not esteem that day above another (Romans 14:5), he should likewise do it “unto the Lord” (Romans 14:6). Instead of dividing over such things, believers should learn how to be gracious and understand that all believers will independently “stand before the judgment seat of Christ” (Romans 14:10).

Devotional Thoughts

• (For children): Whatever we do, we should do with confidence that God approves (John 8:29b). If we cannot, that is sin (Romans 14:23b). What we can do or cannot is sometimes open to debate amongst believers. Instead of getting upset, let God be the judge (1 Corinthians 4:5).
• (For everyone): What are some things over which believers should not separate? How can people on both sides of the issue do what they do “unto the Lord”?
• What should be the believer’s authority in all matters of faith and practice? How should believers handle those things not addressed by the Bible?

Prayer Thoughts

• Ask God to give you a scriptural graciousness.
• Ask the Lord to give peace amongst His people.

SONG: CLOSE TO THEE