April 20, 2026

We are tempted to believe we can hold onto some of the things from the world after we surrender our lives to Jesus. But can we? Jokes. Parties. Criticism. In work situations, schools, and even family gatherings, people encourage Christians to lighten up, to still laugh and complain about things. But what we compromise to keep, we lose. Throw the old life away and embrace righteousness! That means we walk away from gossip; we refuse to condemn those God still hopes will find Salvation. Truth and righteousness are 24/7 once we accept Jesus Christ.

Our obligation doesn’t stop there. If we are taking the stand to love our neighbor as we love ourselves, we should speak up. We can say we’re not comfortable judging others or laughing at questionable jokes. Hiding our true emotions because we’re not willing to confront a situation shows a lack of courage. I think of righteousness as an opportunity to defend the lessons Jesus taught. He spoke about hiding our light under a bushel basket. He is the light we represent.

We can represent our faith in kindness. Without additional judgment. Take a stand. Lovingly. Guard always against a double minded position where Christianity is our claim but our behavior poses questions.

Father God, If I have compromised my faith, if I have been silent when I should have spoken up, if I have given an impression my Salvation did not change me, I am sorry. I repent for any words I’ve used, laughed at, or tolerated because I didn’t want to make waves. Silence is tacit approval. I pray I will seek God’s will in every situation and if He says I should speak up, I will do that. Help me remember judgment blocks surrender. May I never be the reason someone chooses hell over Salvation.

“Because of the kindness  that God has shown me, I ask you not to think of yourselves more highly than you should. Instead, your thoughts should lead you to use good judgment based on what God has given each of you as believers.” Romans 12:3