STOP THE WOBBLE

Today the pressure to compromise our lifestyle as Christ-followers is intensifying from every side. On a daily basis it is one of the greatest battles that we face. No one is immune from peer pressure, no matter what age you are. The pressure to compromise makes a 6-year-old shout out loud a dirty word or a 16-year-old get drunk at a party. The same pressure forces a business executive to cheat on a business deal, and then say, “Everyone does it.”

 A Christ-follower is called to stand firm and not be seduced by peer pressure. Granted, sometimes it is very difficult to stand firm and stand out in the crowd. You will always feel better keeping your principles intact. Many times this action has the potential, to costs you a friendship, a job, or something else you value. Yet Christ-followers are always directed to stand on the side of right, even when it is unpopular to do so.

Well then, since God's grace has set us free from the law, does that mean we can go on sinning? Of course not! Don't you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living. (Romans 6:15-16)

If you wobble when facing the pressure to compromise, here are three principles that I hope will help you stabilize your wobbling. First, everyone you hang with or spend time with has an influence on you. Choose your friends wisely. Second, remember your uniqueness. You are special in God’s eyes. Third, seek first the kingdom of God. Pleasing God is better than pleasing your friends. (Matthew 6:33)

 If you haven’t found a verse to live by, let me suggest Micah 6:8 as a good choice: “The Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” When you walk with the Lord in the light of His Word your inclination to wobble at compromise will cease.

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