Compromise

“But test everything; hold fast what is good.” (I Thessalonians 5:21, ESV)

What is compromise? It is usually defined as “an accommodation in which both sides make concessions.” Is this a good thing, or is compromise something to avoid?

In some instances, we may find compromise is a good thing. It helps two sides to find a middle point when opinions differ, a “give and take” type thing. Your spouse prefers blue paint but you like green.  Can you compromise to find something both of you will find acceptable? You plan lunch with a friend. You prefer a sandwich and salad type place while they prefer a fast-food burger. Neither situation involves a moral issue, so choose to compromise. Flip a coin or choose another option.

In other situations, however, we must take a firm stand. If something goes against our values or challenges our integrity, compromise is never an option. Anything that goes against the Word of God becomes non-negotiable.

Choosing to stand firm without compromise can prove difficult. I’ve heard of job situations where an employee was being pressured to do something unethical and which might also skirt the law. The choice was between keeping their integrity or keeping their job. I’ve also heard of situations where one spouse abandons their relationship with God and then pressures the other spouse to join them in a sinful lifestyle. Choosing to go against God’s Word is always a bad choice.

Let’s look at two examples in the Bible where someone chose to stand firm in their beliefs, even when compromise may have been easier.

Moses and Pharaoh

As the Book of Exodus opens, the Israelites were slaves in Egypt. God called Moses to lead them out of slavery and into the land He promised them. But Pharaoh said no. Moses knew to stand firm and not give into Pharaoh’s demands. To compromise would go against God instructions. His people were to leave Egypt.

Pharaoh gave several alternatives, none of which he really meant to keep. First, he said the Israelites could just offer their sacrifices in Egypt (Exodus 8:25). Later, he offered that they could go to the wilderness but “not go very far away” (verse 28). Then he said only the men could go (Exodus 10:11) and then that they must leave their flocks and herds behind (Exodus 10:24). Had Moses compromised—but he did not—the Israelites would have remained in slavery.

Daniel and His Friends

When the kingdom of Judah fell to the Babylonian army, Daniel and his three friends were carried into captivity. Because they were observant of God’s dietary laws, they refused to defile themselves by eating the king’s food. They could have excused a compromise by saying things were beyond their control, but they did not. God blessed the stand they took, and they advanced to high positions of leadership without compromising their beliefs. (Read Daniel chapter 1.)

In II Timothy 4:3-4 we are told that a time will come when people seek out leaders who will tell them what they want to hear rather than teach them truth.

“For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” (ESV)

The world would like to shape us into its way of thinking. The enemy of our souls would like us to adjust our values and convictions to conform to its standards and values. Some will allow themselves to align with those often subtle and deceptive ideas, but it is always dangerous to go against God’s Word.

Romans 12:2 strongly warns us not to compromise.

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (NKJV)

We live in difficult times that may challenge our faith, but we must always be on guard.

“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.” (I Corinthians 16:13, NKJV)

Lord, my prayer is that You will keep me alert and strong. Please help me to always seek Your will instead of allowing the world to shape my values and beliefs. I know that following Your Word will always keep me on the right path.