Romans__14
Scripture
Romans 14:17-18
17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, 18 because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval.
Observation - What does it say?
The Apostle Paul, writing to the Christians in Rome, is discussing the way we live. We all have different convictions around the things scripture is unclear about. What kind of food is acceptable for Christ-followers to eat, if it's ok to watch rated R movies, if we must set aside a specific day to observe the sabbath, etc. And Paul encourages them to not only consider what your personal convictions are, but your fellow believers. If what you do or eat causes another believer to stumble, then you are no longer acting in love.
Understanding - What does it mean?
Bottom line, it isn't as much about your personal convictions in specific areas, but it's about living a life of "righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit." When we live in the Spirit, doing what is right, filled with peace and joy, the result won't be contention or other believers stumbling but both God AND people approving!
Life Application
Live in the Spirit! Pursue what is right and walk in the peace and joy the Holy Spirit offers!
- Levi Thompson