The "No" Compromise

 

Compromise is one of those words that have been high-jacked and had its meaning changed. We are taught and told that to compromise is a good thing. It means you are reasonable and thoughtful. People who do not compromise are viewed as rigid and nasty people who are greedy and selfish. When you are deciding on what to have for dinner, compromise can be a good thing. When you are looking at morals and what is right, compromise is always wrong and should have no place in the life of the Scouter.

It is interesting that when it comes to moral and ethical issues, those who believe in compromise will try to make people feel guilty and selfish. What they are saying is that to compromise is to agree with them. They do not give in to what is right. Scouts learn that you cannot compromise morals and ethics. You are either doing what is right or doing what is wrong; no middle ground is there. Pastor Jonathan Farwell of Thomas Roads Baptist Church put it right when he said, “It is so important that our churches, our Christian schools and we, as individuals, do not allow non-Christian influences to influence our beliefs.”

“Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to face the truth. Do the right thing because it is right. These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity.”

W. Clement Stone

1902-2002

Businessman

 

Here is a problem I have had with many Scouters who are Christians. Too often, we do not stand fully by our faith because we do not wish to offend anyone. I also do not want to be offensive, but I cannot say that any religious belief is okay. I know that there is only one way to God, and that is through Jesus Christ. Not my idea but God’s. I believe that all Scouters need to make that clear when confronted with questions of faith. In the words of A.W. Tozer, “We are not diplomats but prophets, and our message is not a compromise but an ultimatum.” Hard words, but the truth sometimes is. That is why it takes courage to face it.

Never fall for the argument of compromise. You cannot compromise on truth. It stands as it is, or it is not the truth. Standing for what is moral, ethical, and spiritually truthful is not easy. However, for the Scout, there is no other way. You cannot compromise on this one.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey