Counsel #17 — The Peace of Uncompromising Faith

Picture: Counsel #17 — The Peace of Uncompromising FaithCSL 116.1

It’s tough when family or friends pressure us to go against our Christian beliefs. It’s tempting to compromise for the sake of peace as standing for truth can divide relationships. But as followers of Jesus, we can’t compromise on what matters most: the gospel and faithful preaching,^{[149]1 Corinthians 15:3-6; 2 Timothy 4:2} the Ten Commandments, and the absolute lordship and authority of Christ^{[150]Luke 16:13}. Our personal convictions^{[151]Romans 14:5} and moral issues clearly defined in Scripture^{[152]1 Corinthians 6:18} are also non-negotiable. Of course, we should love and respect our families, but real peace doesn’t come from “going along to get along”—it comes from being faithful to God’s truth. Choosing what is eternally right brings peace that lasts, even if it creates conflict in the moment. We speak the truth in love, standing firm on God’s unwavering Word, knowing that true peace isn’t just the absence of conflict; it’s found in faithfulness to Him.^{[153] https://adventist.news/news/hold-fast-what-you-have} CSL 116.2

“Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.” Matthew 10:34-36 NKJVCSL 116.3

“The sacrifice is too costly to be made by the children of God to make peace with the world by giving up the principles of truth.” Ellen White in My Life Today , p. 77CSL 116.4

Reflect: What does "speaking the truth in love" mean when your beliefs differ from those around you?CSL 116.5