Real Help

Satan is subtle.

He knows most Christians won’t jump right in and compromise for the sake of it. They have to be convinced that it’s no big deal or that certain biblical standards are “outdated” or no longer relevant.

Why do followers of Christ sometimes follow the world instead? Here are 4 Common Ways Christians Compromise With the World that will help you guard yourself from the subtle, but dangerous, temptation to do so.

1. Media

   Finding wholesome media these days is not impossible – but it is tough. That’s why it has become so easy for Christians to compromise with the world. The world has no problem with sin, and they don’t hesitate to fill music, TV and movies with every form of it. When we consume “entertainment” that’s filled with sin, we’re going against what the Bible has said.

   Psalm 101:3 (ESV) says, “I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.” We have to guard our hearts by being selective about what goes in our eyes and ears. It isn’t harmless because it begins to permeate our soul. That’s why Romans 12:2 tells us the only way to not be conformed to this world is to renew our minds with the Word of God. If we fill ourselves up with the wickedness found in the media, we’re going crosswise of the Word.

   You may hear everyone else talking about the latest, greatest movie, but you don’t have to be like everyone else. You should be living at a higher level! Compromising, even a little, in the area of media is far more damaging than most Christians realise.

2. Politics

   Christians compromise with the world far too often in the area of politics. They want to evangelise and be liked, but they don’t want to get involved or speak out for righteousness. Trying not to get canceled will cause you to make one compromise after another. Fear of being labelled as “hateful,” “bigoted,” “not inclusive” or even “self-righteous” has caused many believers to clam up when they are called to be bold as a lion.

   Some even compromise in the area of stewardship by refusing to vote, failing to take a stand against wicked curriculum being pushed in their child’s school, or staying silent when friends or family speak in favour of unbiblical principles.

   Jesus told us that we are to expect persecution and troubles in this world (Matthew 10:22; 1 Peter 4:12). If we never face persecution, there’s a good chance we’ve compromised. Don’t be afraid to stand for righteousness. You’ve been called to it, and God is right there with you, standing on your side.

3. Forgiveness

   The world says it’s OK to hold a grudge if someone really did you wrong. Treating someone poorly because they treated you badly first is perfectly fine. These are all things the world subscribes to. And if you aren’t watchful, you will, too.

   Forgiveness is tough. There’s no doubt about it. As we all know, it requires supernatural help! But it isn’t optional – no matter what the circumstances.

   Holding a grudge against any person or group of people is sin. And it blocks every blessing God has in store for you. While the devil will tempt you in this area, don’t take the bait. While every area of compromise is dangerous, this one will block good things in your life from every direction (Mark 11:25).

4. Words

   What you say doesn’t really matter – or does it? Of course, it does! “I’m just calling it like it is!” people say. That’s a lie of the enemy and a commonly held belief of the world. But the Bible tells us to call things that be not as though they were (Romans 4:17). The world doesn’t watch its words – at all. That’s where so many Christians get trapped. They think it’s normal to speak without thinking. People who watch their words are rare.

   But this area of compromise is one that will change your life – and not for the better. Your words steer your life. If you want it to go in the direction of victory, victory is what you’ll need to speak – no matter what.

   So, if you’re hanging around a lot of people who speak curses over themselves and constantly complain, you may be tempted to compromise. Don’t! Be mindful and refuse to compromise your words.

Did any of these four common ways Christians compromise bring a bit of correction? If so, that’s a good thing! We’re living in unprecedented times, and compromise is a killer. Don’t let the devil trick you into believing it’s no big deal. Stop compromising. Become bold in your beliefs and bold in your faith. Let the lion inside you begin to roar!

Watch Gloria Copeland teach you how to develop a strong spirit.