Daily Devotional

April 7, 2026

“Do not, for the sake of food destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong to make another stumble by what you eat. It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble. The faith that you have keep between yourself and God.” Romans 14:20-22a

Saint Paul speaks of food here. We know all food is clean. The dietary laws were for the Jews and Christ fulfilled those laws along with the sacrificial laws. So, Saint Paul is really getting at something deeper. He is telling us to be considerate of our brothers and sisters in Christ so that they do not misunderstand our faith or practice and, in their weakness or lack of understanding, commit sins.

Bottom line is that some people - especially those new to their faith - cannot handle the freedom Christ gives. They need laws and structures to set themselves apart from what they see as “their old self” and from “the world.” They need time to grow into their faith. So, when in their presence, we ought to be considerate.

We are to tolerate those who are weak in their faith - those who fall to open sin or unpleasing habits. We are not to cast them out but gently guide them, to bear with them as they grow - as Christ did with those around Him.

Prayer: Lord God, give me faith to follow, love and compassion for my weaker brethren, and the wisdom to navigate relationships. May I never cause others to stumble in their faith, but lead and guide them as Christ leads and guides us. In His name I pray. Amen.