The Consequences of Compromise
Titus 2:11-14
Stuck again. Is that an apt description of your life? It is for many Christians. Some know exactly why they are stalled but have been unable to move past the sin that trips them up. Others feel blind to the source of their troubles but perceive that all they do is run in place. Many believers have become discouraged about their situation.
Israel, God’s chosen nation, had a history of defeat because they compromised and yielded to temptation instead of obeying God’s commands. Compromise defeats us too. God calls His children to live obedient lives, but instead, we are usually occupied with our own self-centered needs. At the same time, we are influenced by both the world and Satan. The truth is that our selfish side likes reinterpreting God’s commands to suit us. The world clamors for us to join its way of thinking but shows little or no inclination to follow God’s way. Our Enemy seeks to gain a foothold in our lives through our disobedience and compromise of God’s laws.
Through Scripture, the Lord commands us to rid our lives of ungodliness (Titus 2:11-12), and He provides the Holy Spirit’s power, which enables us to do so. He expects us not to compromise. When we yield to temptation, we start losing God’s power that helps us stand firm.
To fight compromise, begin with your thinking. Have you agreed with God that your attitude or action is displeasing to Him? Have you set your mind on obeying God, whatever it costs you? Only foolish people think they can compromise and live a victorious Christ-centered life.
Daily Devotions with Dr. Charles Stanlley, InTouch Ministries