"But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way." Daniel 1:9
Compromise... it can be a good thing when you're talking about what color to paint the living room or where to go on vacation. It can be an even better thing when it's up to you to keep the peace. But, when is compromise a bad thing? More and more the world defines what's right and wrong by whether if fits into the "50 shades of gray" area. Most things are okay if they don't hurt anyone else and there are differing degrees of what constitutes bad. But God's word is the ultimate authority of what is right and wrong. There is no gray area and, following Christ, requires total obedience and a steadfast faith, even in the small things.
It might seem petty that Daniel refused to eat the king's meat. But it had been sacrificed to idols and was no longer holy. Daniel and his friends loved the Lord so much that they chose to follow Him in every area of their lives, including what they would eat - a small thing one would hardly think God cared about. But God wants our TOTAL obedience and devotion not our compromises. Daniel 1:17 shows how God rewarded Daniel and his friends for their faith, "To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds." By showing he could be trusted with the little things, God granted him so much more. When faced with the temptation to "give in just a little bit", do you compromise? To avoid ridicule or embarrassment, do you ignore your convictions and what you know to be right?
Small compromises can lead to bigger ones. Do it long enough and you'll find yourself in the "grey area" wondering how you ever got to that point. Or maybe you're already there? Wherever you are, God wants you back. No matter what you have done, God loves you and offers forgiveness to all those who ask. Make the decision today to stand firm, stay strong and avoid compromise. We are to be a light in this dark world - made to stand apart. Be an example to those around you and, like Daniel, choose God's way in the little things and the big ones.
Heavenly Father, thank You for your blessings and for your forgiveness. Forgive us when we go astray and help us to listen to the Holy Spirit when we are faced with decisions that might require a compromise. Help us to stand firm so others will see You in us. In your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.
Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org
I will not be moved - Natalie Grant
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