No Compromise – Jennifer Woodley
‘For Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach the statutes and ordinances in Israel.’ Ezra 7:10 (NRSV)
The life of Ezra is little read and reflected upon today in Christian churches. But if we take the time to learn more of Ezra, we quickly discover he was a man whose mainstay was God and His Word. He was a student who daily studied God’s laws, practiced them and then taught them to Israel. His every movement was grounded in what he studied, so that his life glorified God and was one of no compromise.
However, even though Ezra gave himself to God and His word, Ezra was by no means perfect. He did make mistakes (Ezra 8:15-20). But he was quick to acknowledge his error, petition the Lord for help and move on. God honoured Ezra’s humble, repentant heart and his attitude that was never willing to compromise or tolerate sin.
God is concerned with matters of the heart, not external perfection. In times of trouble, when we have moved away from God and His Word, we ought to stop, confess our mistake and draw close to Him again. Choose to obey His Spirit and His word. Choose to believe that God means what He says.
Consider if our mainstay is God just now. Are we trusting in our pastor, our family and friends, ourselves, our own resources, logic or capabilities? Let’s renounce our dependence upon anything or anyone other than God and make choices that reflect we believe in and are following Him instead. Like Ezra, may there be no room for compromise in our lives.
Jennifer is an Australian freelance writer who enjoys encouraging others on their journey with Jesus through writing and mentoring. Contact