Compromise is not always bad. Clearly, there are moral and ethical standards taught in scripture that we can never compromise on, but the principle of compromise is much broader than that. Romans 12:10 says ‘Honour one another above yourselves.’ Sometimes it is wise to compromise. Without compromise, disagreements often cannot be resolved. A good marriage is maintained and strengthened by compromise. Parents who give their children no room for manoeuvre, will face rebellion in future years. Siblings who do not compromise, fight constantly. Nations that refuse to listen to each other and won’t compromise at various points go to war.
Compromise does not come naturally. It is much easier to stand your ground, to keep on believing that your way is the only way to go and that your plan is the only plan to follow. The problem with this is that you are likely to end up narrow-minded and alone. That may feel safe, but not very fulfilling.
You can pursue true character, yet engage in wise compromise. Be tolerant of those who don’t think like you, don’t talk like you, dress like you, worship like you or vote like you. God created us all to be unique and different. Be tolerant of the young if you are older and tolerant of the older if you are young. Jesus wanted His followers to be models of grace and peace. It’s what Paul meant when he wrote ‘Honour one another above yourselves.’
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