Romans 14:6
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.
Romans 14:6 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse emphasizes the importance of living a life that is dedicated to the Lord in all aspects. Whether one chooses to observe certain days as special or not, the key is to do so with the intent of honoring God. The verse also highlights the importance of giving thanks to God in all circumstances, including when eating. Those who eat do so with a grateful heart towards God, and those who choose not to eat also give thanks to the Lord. The message here is that our actions should always be done with the awareness of God's presence and with gratitude for His blessings. By living in this way, every aspect of our lives can be an act of worship and devotion to the Lord.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the apostle Paul addresses the issue of differing convictions among believers regarding certain practices, such as the observance of certain days or dietary choices. He emphasizes that whatever one chooses to do, whether it is observing a specific day or eating certain foods, it should be done with a heart set on honoring the Lord. The key point is to live out one's convictions in a way that glorifies God, whether in observance or in abstaining. Paul highlights the importance of doing all things with a spirit of thanksgiving and with a focus on God's approval rather than seeking the approval of others. This verse reminds believers that their actions should be motivated by a desire to honor God in all aspects of their lives, recognizing that each person's relationship with the Lord is unique and personal. Ultimately, Paul encourages believers to live out their faith in a way that reflects their commitment to the Lord and to do so with gratitude in their hearts.
Romans 14:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord: and he that eateth, eateth unto the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, unto the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.
World English Bible
He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord; and he who does not observe the day, to the Lord he does not observe it. He who eats, eats to the Lord, for he gives God thanks. He who doesn’t eat, to the Lord he doesn’t eat, and gives God thanks.
Douay-Rheims
He that regardeth the day regardeth it unto the Lord. And he that eateth eateth to the Lord: for he giveth thanks to God. And he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not and giveth thanks to God.
Geneva Bible (1599)
He that obserueth the day, obserueth it to the Lord: and he that obserueth not the day, obserueth it not to the Lord. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord: for he giueth God thankes: and he that eateth not, eateth not to the Lord, and giueth God thankes.