Our choices are influenced by the values we consider desirable, important, and morally right.
As a follower of Jesus, we uphold specific values that we should keep regardless of what environment we find ourselves in. To further illustrate, being in a new land and circle shouldn’t be an excuse to compromise what we value as a follower of Jesus.
As a matter of fact, having a standard helps us stand firm.
Without them, we could be easily swayed by what feels right at the moment, even when they are entirely lower than the standards we desire. And without having any standards, it’s easy to be afraid of the consequences of being firm about what we value.
Take, for example, Daniel in Daniel 1:1-21. When he was exiled to Babylon together with the people of Israel (Daniel 1:3), he set in his heart that he would not defile himself with the king’s food (Daniel 1:8). So as not to defile himself, Daniel asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself (Daniel 1:8). Being firm with what he considers essential and morally right, God gave him favor in the sight of his captors (Daniel 1:9).
Would it have endangered Daniel and his friends to raise such a request? It could have been as the chief of the eunuchs expressed concern about this request: “I fear my lord the king, who assigned your food and your drink; for why should he see that you were in worse condition than the youths who are of your own age? So you would endanger my head with the king” (Daniel 1:10 ESV).
However, because Daniel was firm in what he believed in, the kind of favor he received is described in the following verses:
But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.
Genesis 39:21 ESV
He caused them to be pitied
by all those who held them captive.
Psalm 106:46 ESV
When a man’s ways please the Lord,
he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Proverbs 16:7 ESV
So, what does standing firm to the lifestyle God has set for us to follow?
Our lack of compromise keeps the door of opportunities open for us. Because when we stand firm and choose not to compromise, God can move the hearts of men (whoever we interact with) to grant us favor.
There’s no need to be afraid as we stand out as followers of Jesus wherever we are!
jessa 