Doing the Right Thing

Read Psalm 37:1-11

This story may be hard to believe due to the political cynicism of the day, but it is true. While James E. Rogan was a US Representative from a district in California, he was faced with a crucial decision. He had been elected by the slimmest of margins in an area that usually voted for the other party. An extremely important public issue with immense moral implications was being considered. If he followed his conscience, it would cost him re-election. If he followed political expediency, he could be certain of another term.
The congressman went with his convictions and voted for what he knew in his heart to be right. He was not re-elected. Afterward, he said, "It hurt to lose. But I'll never regret my vote . . . . It is easy for elected officials to succumb to the illusion that the greater good is served by their self-perpetuation in office. But something larger gets lost. . . . the ability to lead."
This story reminded me of a statement that I heard several years ago that said, “Faith will get you into as much trouble as it will get you out of.” This statement is true because sometimes what we believe stands in the face of the tide. You may get rejected, ridiculed and maybe even laughed at because of your faith. As followers of Christ, we are commanded to live by the principles of the Bible. At times, that will cost us popularity or perceived success. Truth may cost more than a lie; conviction more than convenience; honesty more than cheating. It may seem easier to lie, cheat and enjoy convenience, but it will all crumble anyway. If you stand for truth, convictions and honesty, you will enjoy great success.
For now, it looks as if the world is winning and Christians are losing. We need to remember that "those who wait on the Lord . . . shall inherit the earth". When we do what is right, we gain the Lord's approval. To lose is not always failure.

“Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest.”
- Mark Twain