No Compromise

Scripture Reading: Daniel 1:8-20

Focus Verse: Daniel 1:8 "But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods."

As we look around us today we see sports figures, government officials and other people in the public spotlight that have made some of the most foolish choices for their lives.  When temptation came their way, they took the bait that Satan offered.  The result has been disgrace and living a wasted life.  They hurt themselves and those that love them.  Integrity and character need to be buried deep inside you so that when temptation strikes, you have already made the right choice.

We can be thankful for the story of Daniel in the Bible and the example he gives us to live a godly life.  We find nowhere did he compromise even when faced with a den of lions.  He simply said "no" when faced with temptations.  He did not compromise when it came to following the laws that God established. 

There are blessings or consequences following our decisions.  One wrong choice could make a mess of your life.  Let's be boldly obedient like Daniel, and we won't have regrets.  There is a great reward in living an uncompromising life.  Daniel was determined and God can help you make the right choice even before temptation comes your way.

Bobby Johnson
Interlocking Ministries

Obeying God and Doing His Purpose

Scripture Reading: Jeremiah 7:23-26

Focus Verse: Jeremiah 6:16  "This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls."

God's chosen people, Israel, had a challenge with being obedient.  We also have a hard time with our obedience to God.  We know the good path, but do not always take it. 

I believe that every Christian has been given a purpose and a mission by God.  God has given us talent and gifts to fulfill that purpose.  Through our obedience in all areas of our lives we can fulfill that purpose and mission.  If we are disobedient we run the risk of the mission being given to someone else to fulfill.  If we repent, then God may choose to show mercy and give another chance, but we are not guaranteed a second chance at the mission.  God's work will be done, either by us or by someone else.  There have been people, churches, ministries, and nations that have missed out on a blessing because of disobedience. There are many Christians that will come to the end of life and say "I wonder what God could have done through me had I been obedient to Him?  That is a tragedy. 

When I am standing at the crossroads and given the choice to do right or wrong, God can give me the strength to do what is right and follow the ancient path every time!  I pray that I remain faithful.

Bobby Johnson
Interlocking Ministries