Sometimes, as Christians, we need to make decisions because of how the world will see us. Sounds contradictory, doesn’t it? But bear with me for a moment; I will explain what I mean by this in a moment.
First, I do not mean we walk around being fake. I’m not saying that our image is most important, and if it is tarnished, we are less important or somehow less respected—quite the opposite. I am talking about taking a stand for a belief because if we choose the opposite, it could place us in an awkward or compromising position.
I have chosen not to place myself in situations where, one, I could face temptation; two, the appearance of evil could arise; and three, it could potentially harm those around me, regardless of the innocence of the situation. Satan is the author of manipulation, doubt, and second-guessing. I choose not to open my door to any of those things. And if that means I must say ‘no’ to certain things, then so be it.
I Thessalonians 5:22 reminds us to abstain from all appearances of evil. So, if I by doing something innocent, it gives off the impression that I am doing something wrong, then I should seriously reconsider what I am about to do. Basically, I don’t give someone else the wrong idea about what I am doing; that is what I read in this.
Without getting into specifics, I’ve had to make one of those decisions this week. It was tough, but it was based on an agreement my wife and I made. Scripturally based. The appearance of evil can come from anywhere. It doesn’t necessarily have to be within a marriage context. It could be a business practice, a baseball game, or your taxes. When we choose not to willingly place ourselves in a position where our honor could be questioned, then our integrity will speak for itself.
Photo by Kristina Flour on Unsplash
Moments for the Heart 