No Compromises!

Henry Clay became an influential leader in the early days of the American republic. Born in Virginia on this day in 1777, he moved to Kentucky as a young man. There, he became involved in the political process, eventually becoming a powerful U.S. Congressman, and later a Senator and Secretary of State.

Twice he ran for President. Although losing both bids, he remained an important figure. In particular, he became the chief advocate of the Missouri Compromise in 1820 and other legislative measures. As a result, he became known as “The Great Compromiser.”

Clay symbolized the person who could work out deals and develop compromises that solved problems. Clearly there is a place for these compromises in politics and other disciplines. But, in our spiritual lives, compromise can destroy our testimony and cripple our faith. It also can lead to doubt and prevent us from experiencing the fullness of God.

On the night He was betrayed, Jesus realized that even He could have sought to compromise with the plan God had for His life. But He surrendered His life completely to the Father, and dedicated Himself to doing His will.

Unfortunately, many Christians fill their lives with compromise. Instead of standing for the Gospel, they allow themselves to be corrupted by the world. Instead of serving God with their whole hearts, they become polluted by worldly thoughts and habits.

Today, make sure that you do not compromise the things of God. Fill your mind with His Word. Dedicate yourself and your resources to His Kingdom. Surrender your life to Him. When you pray, tell Him, “not as I will, but as You will.” Then live for Him in everything you do.