The Path Less Traveled
Living an Honorable Life through Unpopular Choices
The Path Less Traveled
Living an Honorable Life through Unpopular Choices
In today’s society, it’s not uncommon to witness a divergence from the principles that guide an honorable life. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in a manner that is sometimes controversial and unpopular, yet undeniably righteous. Below, we explore ten unpopular yet effective approaches to living an honorable life, grounded in Biblical principles.
1. Offer Kindness Without Explanation
Offering kindness without seeking anything in return reflects Jesus's teachings on love and charity. In Matthew 5:44 He instructs, "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you."
In the account of Joseph, we witness a beautiful testament to this principle. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, a transgression that could naturally foster bitterness and revenge, Joseph chose the path of love and forgiveness. When eventually rising to power in Egypt, Joseph was presented with an opportunity to retaliate, yet he chose to embrace them, offering sustenance and protection instead. He extended kindness without a prerequisite of an apology or explanation for their cruel actions, embodying a graceful spirit that seeks to love unconditionally (Genesis 45:4-5). This action not only demonstrates tremendous strength and character but also aligns beautifully with the teachings of Christ, urging us to offer kindness, even when it is least expected or deserved.
2. Mind Your Own Business
In 1 Thessalonians 4:11, we are advised to “study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you.” Minding your business promotes peace and reduces conflicts. A perfect example is seen in how Ruth carried out her tasks diligently, focusing on her responsibilities and not engaging in unnecessary disputes (Ruth 2:7).
Ruth exhibited a strong sense of responsibility and purpose as she worked tirelessly to provide for herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi. Rather than involving herself in the affairs of others or getting caught up in potential disputes, Ruth focused on her duty, gathering grains in the fields quietly and respectfully. Her dedication to minding her own business not only helped in sustaining herself and Naomi but also earned her a good reputation and favor in the eyes of Boaz, the owner of the field, showcasing that a focused and undistracted path often leads to unexpected blessings and favor.
3. Do Not Over-React
Proverbs 15:1 tells us that "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” By not over-reacting, we uphold peace and showcase wisdom, a principle vividly illustrated in the life of Abigail. In a highly tense situation, where David was infuriated and ready to shed blood in retaliation for Nabal's insolence, Abigail intervened with calmness and strategic diplomacy (1 Samuel 25:32-35).
She approached David with humility, bringing provisions and using words of wisdom to avert a disastrous outcome. Abigail not only recognized the gravity of the impending violence but also foresaw the regret that David might harbor if he proceeded with his vengeful plan. By not over-reacting and instead responding with a well-measured, respectful appeal, Abigail demonstrated exceptional wisdom that not only saved her household but also preserved David from unnecessary bloodshed. Her actions stand as a testament to the power of a calm demeanor in preventing escalation and promoting peace.
4. Do Real
In essence, “Do Real” implores us to lead an authentic life. 1 John 3:18 instructs, “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” It calls for a life where actions validate words, a life led by individuals like Job, who remained righteous and true despite immense trials (Job 2:3).
Job is a remarkable embodiment of authentic living, maintaining his integrity even amidst severe trials and loss. He didn't just profess his faith in words but demonstrated it resolutely in his actions, refusing to curse God despite the provocations and hardships he faced. His unwavering faith and alignment of words with deeds, even in adversity, exemplifies a genuine, “real" life grounded in truth and righteousness, showcasing the profound depth of his character and adherence to divine principles. Job's life stands as a beacon, urging us to live authentically and honor God not just in words, but through steadfast faith and action.
5. Do the Right Thing Because It is the Right Thing
Our motivation should always be righteousness. In Isaiah 1:17 we are encouraged to “Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.” Daniel is a sterling example of this scripture in action. Even under a foreign rule and amidst a culture that often contradicted his own beliefs, Daniel chose to uphold his principles, showing dedication to what was right without being swayed by fear or convenience (Daniel 1:8).
For instance, he resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and chose a path of righteousness grounded in his faith. This commitment to doing the right thing was also evident when he continued to pray openly to God despite the king's decree that threatened him with death (Daniel 6). Daniel's life is a testament to the purest form of integrity, one that adheres to righteousness simply because it is right, portraying a moral fortitude that is unyielding to external pressures.
6. Deal Only in Facts, Not Hearsay
Leviticus 19:16 warns us, “Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people…” Following this principle helps in fostering relationships based on trust and truth. Nathaniel, described as a man in whom there was no guile, exemplified this ethos profoundly (John 1:47).
Being initially skeptical upon hearing of Jesus from Nazareth, Nathaniel didn't simply accept the prevailing hearsay. Instead, he sought to see and know for himself, thus showing a preference for firsthand experience and personal judgment over unverified information. This individual approach to discernment, guided by a commitment to truth rather than hearsay, enabled him to recognize Jesus as the Messiah genuinely and sincerely, showcasing the blessings that come with standing firm in truth and dealing only in facts.
7. Refuse to Treat People the Way They Treat You
Christ’s teachings steer us towards a path of non-retaliation and embrace of righteousness. In the Sermon on the Mount, He guided us saying, “But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also” (Matthew 5:39). This ethos is echoed in Paul’s letter to the Romans where he advised, “Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men” (Romans 12:17), emphasizing a life of honest dealings devoid of vengeance.
Following this high road of moral conduct, Stephen demonstrated an extraordinary act of forgiveness during his final moments. While under the brutality of a stoning, he found the strength to pray for his persecutors, embodying a grace that seeks not vengeance but the welfare of even those who do us harm, as recorded in Acts 7:60. This narrative stands as a powerful testimony to the Christian calling to respond to evil not with retaliation, but with a spirit of forgiveness and righteousness, aligning our actions with the teachings of Christ and His apostles.
8. Desire Success for Everyone
Philippians 2:4 exhorts us to “look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” This selfless approach to life mirrors Jonathan’s desire for David’s success, even at the cost of his own advancement (1 Samuel 20:4).
Jonathan, the heir to King Saul’s throne, willingly stepped aside, understanding that David was the one chosen by God to be the next king of Israel. Instead of harboring jealousy or competitiveness, Jonathan fostered a deep friendship with David, aiding his path to the throne even when it meant sidelining his own royal aspirations. This unique portrayal of genuine friendship and selflessness stands as a powerful testament to the Christian call to desire success for others, even when it demands personal sacrifice, illuminating a path of humility and love guided by God’s grander design.
9. Treat Unjust Criticism as a Disguised Compliment
To live honorably, we should heed the guidance of Proverbs 15:31, which urges us to embrace wisdom by listening to life's reproofs, it reads, “The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.” This principle was grandly displayed in David's restraint and discernment when he chose not to take Saul's life even though he had the perfect opportunity to do so (1 Samuel 24:10).
In a cave in the wilderness of Engedi, David found himself in close proximity to King Saul, his relentless pursuer who was bent on taking his life. Despite the pressure and the seeming justification for retaliation, David chose the path of wisdom and spared Saul. This action not only displayed a magnanimous spirit but also a deep understanding of the value of life and the gravity of taking justice into one’s own hands. It demonstrated a superior moral ground rooted in wisdom, where unjust criticism was met with forbearance and grace, not vengeance. David's wisdom in this instance embodies an approach to criticism that goes beyond mere tolerance to a dignified and honorable response, showcasing a remarkable adherence to the principles of wisdom outlined in the scriptures.
10. Give an Unearned Compliment
As articulated in Proverbs 12:25, "Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad," words of kindness can have a transformative impact on individuals. In the early Christian church, Barnabas exhibited this by being a continuous source of encouragement, helping to foster unity and growth, as recorded in Acts 4:36-37.
Barnabas, whose name means "Son of Encouragement," was living testament to the positive force of uplifting others. Barnabas sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles to meet the needs of the community, showcasing his generous spirit and trust in the communal vision of the early church. This act went beyond just financial assistance; it was a vote of confidence and a compliment to the apostles and the early Christian community, emphasizing his belief in their mission. His unearned compliments and acts of generosity not only assisted those in immediate need but also fostered a spirit of unity, mutual trust, and growth, nurturing a community where individuals could thrive spiritually, fortified by the goodwill and encouragement he constantly provided.
Conclusion
Adhering to these less-traveled paths might often present challenges, but as we see in the lives of many Biblical figures, there are abundant blessings and rewards awaiting those who choose such noble routes. By incorporating these principles in our daily endeavors, we align ourselves more closely with God's blueprint for a life of righteousness, paving the way for others to emulate a praiseworthy lifestyle. Let us endeavor to live in accordance with God’s will, nurturing a community rooted in love, honesty, and fairness, honoring God through our actions.