Daily Bible Plan

20. June 2025

Devotion by Reverend Joseph Antwi

Theme: From Upper Room to Every Room

Fortified City Church & Love City Church, Basel

Conviction with Compassion

Andacht von Reverend Joseph Antwi

Scripture: Romans 14:1–21

📖 Start Here:

Open your Bibles to Romans 14:1–21. Read it slowly. Let the Holy Spirit highlight key words or verses. Then, share your thoughts with us on our page.

Devotional Reflection:

I often hear certain denominations boasting about observing the Sabbath on Saturday rather than Sunday—as if that makes them superior or more spiritual. But when I read Romans 14, I wonder, have they read the Bible closely? Paul reminds us that it’s not the day that matters—but the heart behind it.

“One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind.” (v.5)

If your church gathers on Saturday, Sunday, or even Tuesday night, it’s what it is—worship is about Christ, not the calendar. God sees the heart, not the schedule.

Some also get caught up in food laws, judging others for eating meat or not eating it. But again, Paul speaks directly to this:

“The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them.” (v.3)

Let’s say one believer is vegetarian for health or spiritual reasons. Another eats meat freely, giving thanks to God. Both are accepted by God—as long as their actions flow from faith and do not cause others to stumble.

Caution with Freedom:

Just because something is permitted doesn’t mean it’s always wise. Your freedom should never lead another person to spiritual harm.

“If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love.” (v.15)

“It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.” (v.21)

This is the balance of love and liberty. We are free in Christ, but our freedom must be led by love and humility.

We All Will Stand Before God:

Let’s not forget this truth:

“As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.’ So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.” (v.11–12)

This includes those who now mock or reject Christ. And it includes us—believers—who must be careful not to judge or despise our fellow brothers and sisters. We will all stand before the same Lord.

💬 Final Thoughts:

The Kingdom of God is not about eating, drinking, or worship days. It’s about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (v.17).

So let’s live in a way that builds up—not tears down. Let’s hold strong convictions, but walk humbly and compassionately with others.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the freedom we have in You. Help me walk in love toward those with different convictions. Teach me to prioritize peace over pride and unity over being right. May my life be pleasing to You and edifying to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotion Challenge:

Take time today to reflect on an area where you may have judged someone over a minor issue. Choose instead to extend grace and build a bridge. Share your thoughts and experiences on our page—let’s grow together.

With you on the journey,

Reverend Joseph Antwi

For prayer & counseling, send a message to WhatsApp: +41 79 663 63 24