Willing To Stand Alone

Willing to Stand Alone

I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:13-14

Twelve Angry Men is one of my favorite movies (and Nathan’s, too). Henry Fonda plays a juror in a murder trial, and the evidence seems so clear-cut that the other eleven jurors are ready to return a guilty verdict. But Fonda’s character isn’t satisfied with the evidence and wants to go through it again—and again and again. Every time a vote is taken, he stands alone. The other jurors are impatient and ready to move on, and some turn the disagreement into a personal battle. But he keeps his focus on the job, urges them to reexamine the case, and points out the gaps in the evidence. The votes begin to shift. Eventually all the jurors agree on a not-guilty verdict.

It’s hard to stand alone against popular opinion. Most of us have experienced days when we seem to be on the other side of the fence from everyone else. We feel pressure to compromise, and it’s easy at such times to lose perspective on what’s important to cling to and what isn’t. Sometimes we realize we were wrong about something, sometimes we still believe we’re right but it isn’t worth fighting for, and sometimes we stand firm on what we know is true and worth fighting for. But knowing the difference can be difficult.

Coach Noll said, “Stubbornness is a virtue—if you’re right!” As a Christian, you need to be stubborn about the things God says are right. Always stand firm on essentials. Focus on the main thing, the truths that are most important and worth fighting for. Be single-minded about pursuing Christ, His Kingdom, and the things that are important to Him, and be persistent. Sometimes we have to stand alone for a long time. But be willing to compromise on nonessentials. Let go of what isn’t important, and be comfortable admitting when you’re wrong. Your convictions combined with your humility may even attract others to your viewpoint, and you won’t be standing alone for long.

Uncommon Key > Stand your ground when you’re right about something important, and be willing to admit when you’re wrong. And keep your eyes on Christ and reflect on His Word so you can know the difference.