Choosing the Right Path and Having the Courage to Do What’s Right, Not What’s Easy

Why integrity matters more than ever and how to stand firm in your faith despite peer pressure and popular opinion.

How many times in your life have you wanted to take the quick and easy way out? Or how many times have you been encouraged to do the “popular thing” vs. the “right thing”? In today’s fast-paced world, these questions seem more prevalent.

Life is often filled with choices, and while sometimes it seems easier to take the shortcut or more convenient/popular option, God calls us to a higher standard.   Doing the “right thing” requires more effort, courage, and, yes, taking the risk of stepping out with a bit of fear. But you still know it is the right thing to do.

“Let us not grow weary of doing good, for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 and “Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins” James 4:17

That verse from James sure got our attention! In today’s world, being “cool” and accepted seems important. Doing the “popular thing” vs. the right thing” seems to prevail.

Think about our role with our kids and grandkids. With the pressures and temptations thrown at them today, how are we helping them understand the importance of integrity and doing the “right thing”? Are we modeling it for them? Do they feel they have our support to avoid being impacted by inappropriate peer pressure?   

We were reminded of this well-known Bible story from Luke 10:25-37.  You all know it, the Good Samaritan.

The Samaritan faced a decision: walk past the injured man, which was certainly easier and less messy, or stop and help, which required compassion, sacrifice, and personal risk. As we all know, he chose that later. He showed clearly that doing the right thing means stepping out of our comfort zone.  

What do we need to do to be more like the Samaritan?  How do we step out in faith and do the right thing when we realize it could make things a little “messy”?

PRAY - Ask God for clarity, strength, wisdom, and discernment when choosing to do the right things vs. the easy or popular thing.  Take time to LISTEN in your prayer time. 

“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all, and without criticizing, it will be given to him. James 1:5

STAY IN THE WORD - When confronted with a tough decision, the Bible offers great wisdom. Take time to read it and apply what you read to your current situation. The Bible is not a history book; it is designed to teach us how to live. Bible reading is not measured by the quantity of verses you read but by the quality of your reading. We have been practicing reading less and focusing on applying what we read in our daily lives.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” Proverbs 3: 5-6

SEEK GODLY WISDOM FROM TRUSTED FRIENDS - We think this one is huge! Reach out to other Christian friends you trust and value their perspective and wisdom. This requires you to be vulnerable and transparent in confronting the decisions you are contemplating. To admit you do not have all the answers. Seek those who will tell you what you need to hear while at the same time encouraging you to do the right thing. We all need someone like that in our lives.

“Spend time with those who are wise, whether for ill or good, companions will have a strong influence on us. Chose wise friends and is doing so, we will set the trajectory for our own decisions and character” Proverbs 13:20

In closing, we encourage you to be BOLD in your faith and to trust God to provide you the courage to do the right thing even when it may not be popular or may cause you to take some criticism. A verse we have front and center in our office reminds us of this daily.

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Our prayer of encouragement to you this week is that you will keep this verse front and center in your daily walk.