trbccoffeebreak

“Guard my life, for I am devoted to you. You are my God; save your servant who trusts in You.” Psalm 86:2 (NIV)

Wonder if we have any non-negotiables in our lives? You know like things we just won’t change. Or maybe it’s things we just won’t do. Perhaps it’s a standard we won’t compromise or a discipline we’re not willing to cast aside.

Non-negotiables can be bad, or they can be good. Being stubborn and demanding our way will definitely make us a friend to be avoided. Being prideful and choosing only certain tasks will eventually limit our possibilities for growth. Standing firm in our convictions will absolutely set us apart from the crowd. And maintaining our priorities will position us for the best rather than simply good enough.

So, where are we hovering in our non-negotiables? Do we do things the same way we always did or are we adventurous and willing to follow God’s lead? Change invites growth and flexibility. Learning to approach a situation differently takes courage. Accepting another view of a situation can enable us to extend grace rather than cast judgment.

Are we resisting some non-negotiables because we would have to leave the gray areas for the pursuit of holiness? Might it involve choosing to look different instead of blending into the crowd? Respect is earned even if others don’t agree when we choose to stick to our values. Maintaining integrity is crucial if we want to be influencers in a world where instability reigns.

Flip through the pages of scripture and we will find people who chose their non-negotiables carefully. Joseph’s guarded heart, Job’s protected eyes and Esther’s brave convictions positioned them to reap the rewards of good non-negotiables. Praying Jesus finds us there too – unashamed of what we believe. Standing firm not caving in. Leaving comfort for God’s best even if means releasing our defaults. Maintaining integrity even in the face of extreme temptation. Making the right choices even if it’s not trendy. Placing unshakeable trust in the One who rewards those who diligently seek Him and walk in His ways.

“Father, You have given us the gift of choice – help us to lean into Your wisdom and reap the rewards of a life lived with integrity.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life