Living Honestly in an Unethical World

Fresh Manna
by Pastor Tim Burt

When I talk to Christians who do business daily in the workplace, I hear of problems they often face because of their Christianity. Because of their faith in God, they feel compelled by the Word of God to live honestly and with integrity. But, they also feel that because of it, they’re competing on an uneven playing field. The world doesn’t deal with honesty and fairness. Do the contrary, the world too often deals with lies, under-the-table dealings, corruption, and does business in ways that are outside of the law. Yet Christians are expected to have integrity and do what is upright and honest. And so, they ask, How is that fair? 

And then there are Christians who work hard and trust in God for their promotion and advancement while other people play politics and connive to play up to the boss to get ahead. The list of ways worldly people compete unfairly is never-ending.

Too often we try to find fair out there in life. The truth is, fair isn’t out there. Fair isn’t available because we live in a sin-defiled world. Satan is the corrupter and defiler of all God’s creation and ways of life.  We know God is just and fair, but God is also patient for all men to be saved—to come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. And for that reason, we don’t see God’s instant judgment upon everything unjust. (That’s good for us or we’d be in trouble!) There will come a time when God executes judgment and justice upon all. At that time, we will see those that did not turn their hearts toward God, receive their judgment. But for now, the Bible says, James 2:13 (NIV)”…Mercy triumphs over judgment!”

Most of the world lies and cheats because they feel it’s the norm and the standard it takes to get by. Christians have to work harder at remaining pure while the world parties on, not paying attention to or caring about God’s standard for moral relationships or ethical thinking and behavior. What can really seem unfair is that it looks like they get away with it! Trust me no one gets away with anything! God is watching! God knows. 

As Christians, God does want us to abide by His Word and do what’s right. The Apostle Paul set the example for us. He says in 1 Thessalonians 2:3-4 NIV,  “For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted…. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts.”

God wants us to be trustworthy with the truth—trusting Him for the results. He will ultimately work things out in a just and fair way in accordance with His plan and purpose. He will make things fair. Proverbs 2:7-9 NIV says, “The Lord… holds victory in store for the upright, He is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for He guards the course of the just and protects the way of His faithful ones. Then you will understand what is RIGHT AND JUST AND FAIRevery good path.” If you are looking for fair in life, remember that in this world, fairness is only available from God. He alone has the knowledge of absolutes, right and wrong, and all necessary details. For us, much of fairness is a matter of perspective. We all simply do the best we can with the information we have. 

There are some perceived injustices that God alone understandsusually having to do with reasons of His mercy to reach others. Again, some justice may be delayed until the final Day of Judgment. Then all injustices will be made right. But don’t think that His mercy leaves you holding the bag of injustice. 

As Christians, it can seem like we are going to end up on the short end of the stick. Don’t let the devil talk you into that lie. That’s not faith and we can not allow ourselves to think like that. Have faith and trust God to make things fair!  Always act honestly and no matter what anyone else does, just do what’s right. Petition the Lord and He will help make things work for you. The fact is, WE have the unfair advantage. We are God’s children and we have His love, power, authority, supernatural favor, grace, and many precious promises to help us walk victorious in this life! That more than balances the scales! Now that is justice! Trust Him! 

Psalms 103:6 (NLT) “The Lord gives righteousness and justice to all who are treated unfairly”

In His love,
Pastor Tim Burt

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