In all sorts of work environments — and even in the church — the fear of a lost job pushes people into unhealthy compromises they’d never make if not for fear of angering the person who can make their lives miserable or even fire them.
We’ve all seen this happen.
Perhaps we’ve even experienced it.
Fortunately, most people in hire/fire positions don’t exploit this power because they know that fear-filled workers are not optimally fruitful workers.
Are you struggling with fear of a person just now because you’re afraid that person will fire you or work to get you fired?
Are you fearful of someone making it his or her mission to trash your standing among peers at school? Or within your extended familiy?
Are you afraid of speaking up at church about an unbiblical action or teaching because you don’t want to create enemies and become the target of icy stares, cold shoulders and hallway gossip?
King Solomon has something to share with us this morning that is intended to strengthen us.
“Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety.” (Proverbs 29:25)
Let’s do and say what is right in God’s sight. Let’s make sure that our faith is based on the compass of scripture — 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
At all times.
Our souls and consciences will be safe.
Notice that Solomon didn’t promise the absence of conflict.
He promised safety.
That means preservation in the midst of danger.
I’ve lost jobs because of remaining true to my conscience and the Word of God.
Tough times followed.
But my faith was strengthened — “toughened” — and I am a better person now as a result.
And my soul remains safe beyond the reach of the Enemy’s efforts to flood me with fear.
As a pastor, I am to reverently fear the Lord and keep His commandments, not fear people and ignore/edit God’s commandments.
Listen, friends. If hassles and hardships come our way because we’re fearing the Lord and His commandments, God will still carry us spiritually and economically to the safe place we need to be.
Let this be our strength. Let this be our hope. Let this be our “safe place” where our souls can abide in assurance.
As always, I love you
Martin
