January 19, 2022
He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters. Matthew 12:30 and Luke 11:23
God reminds us often that there is no neutral ground. Neutrality is the forerunner to compromise, that old serpent’s subtle ploy to lead people away from God. It always seems harmless at first. The deceiver even makes it appear beneficial. But, beloved, you can be sure that the destination it leads to is not where you want to go. God, through the drawing power of His love, is taking back territory (us!) from the enemy. But His mission requires our full cooperation.
Each individual who wholeheartedly surrenders to His beckoning love gets a fresh new start: justification (forgiveness) for past sins places the repentant one on the path of sanctification. His Word contains what we need for the path of restoration in us of His reflection. Sin has marred that image, but healing and restoration begin the moment one humbly and truly gives his whole heart to the Lord.
The spirit of compromise weaves half-heartedness, procrastination, and peer pressure together. Oh, how hesitant people are to speak or do differently from what everyone else is doing! Many do not really know for sure what decision they would make if met with the need to make an emergency decision. But it is necessary to decide now. Hesitation is deadly.
Pilate found no fault with Jesus and was almost persuaded to take a stand for Him, referring to Him as a “just person.” God even tried to reach Pilate through his wife who pleaded with him regarding this just Man. But it seems that Pilate was more concerned about the attitude of the crowd. He even performed a ‘ceremonial washing’ of his hands, declaring his own innocence, as if that would clear him from the guilt of ordering the crucifixion of Jesus. (see Matthew 27:24,26)
And Elijah came to all the people, and said, “How long will you falter between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him.” But the people answered him not a word. 1 Kings 18:21