Galatians 5:7-9, “Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you. A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.”

Compromise!

It is a confusing notion. On one hand comprise can be good. In relationships, some give and take is healthy. It can strengthen and lengthen a marriage.

On the other hand, compromising your principles or standards leads to destruction. It lowers quality and opens the door for inferior attitudes to prevail.

By definition, compromise an agreement or a settlement of a dispute that is reached by each side making concessions. To accept standards that are lower than is desirable.

Yes, to a certain extent compromise is healthy. But we must me wise. We need to recognize when to compromise and when to stand boldly on principle and refuse to cave in to pressure or to popular opinion.

That brings us to our topic: Beware of leaven.

By definition, leaven is a substance, typically yeast, that is used in dough to make it rise.
A pervasive influence that modifies something or transforms it.

We live in a time where the ability to influence the thoughts and behaviors of the masses can garner fame and fortune. Online life is littered with influencer. People who may or may not truly believe in what they are saying or advertising. Their only goal is a multitude of followers, free products, and publicity.

Influence is the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something, or the effect itself.

The end goal is to sway people in any direction they seem fit.

Negative compromise does not happen all at once. That would be too drastic. The victim would catch on quickly to what is happening. Rather it can be very subtle.

It starts with an innocent idea. Seeds planted during conversation. Innocent comments. Small touches, etc.

If we are not careful to catch it when it’s small, it will grow and take you over. At some point you will not recognize who you have become. Neither will the people around you.

1 Peter 5:8, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”

We are instructed to:

– Watch and pray (Matthew 26:41).

– To know those who labor with us (1 Thessalonians 5:12).

– We are warned to avoid those who walk contrary to the gospel (Romans 16:17).

We are to guard our hearts and minds. To protect ourselves from allowing the enemy to change us into something other than what God has called.

It only takes a little leaven to change the whole lump.

We like to think a little of this or a little of that won’t hurt or harm us. But that is erroneous thinking. If the “little” is contrary to what God has ordered. It is very harmful.

Self check time:

– Who are you being influenced by?

– What compromises have you made.

– How much or how far have you changed from the purpose for which God has called you?

– Who has influenced you that you no longer obey the truth?

After a self check, if you find negative compromise, it’s time to repent. Ask God to forgive you. Make changes. Avoid people, places, and things that would pull you away from God. You can and should still love and pray for them. But you cannot spend time with them to the point where they are impacting your thoughts and behaviors.

Beware of leaven

Have a blessed day