Plead my cause, O Lord, with those who strive with me. — Psalm 35:1
My friend Ron wasn’t having a good week. His new job had thrust him in the midst of some people who were foul-mouthed, rude, and obnoxious. Ron is one tough guy, but after 2 months of working in that environment, he wasn’t sure he could tolerate any more ungodly, uncouth behavior.
Ron is by no means alone. Perhaps you too are in an environment that is not friendly to godliness — either at work, at home, or elsewhere. If so, what can you do? Here are some suggestions that may help you survive and even thrive:
Concentrate on God’s goodness and depend on it. Our circumstances do not change the truth that the Lord is good all the time (Nahum 1:7).
Stay true to your convictions. Daniel refused to give in when he was surrounded by the ungodly (Daniel 1).
Immerse yourself in the Bible. Listen to God in His Word. It will encourage you (Psalm 119:49-50).
Do good for those who oppose you. Return good for evil (Matthew 5:44).
Trust God to be your companion. He will never leave you. And He won’t forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).
When it’s just you and God, that’s enough. — Dave Branon
When we are weak and in despair,
Our mighty God is near;
He’ll give us strength and joy and hope,
And calm our inner fear. — Sper
READ: Psalm 35:1-10
With God behind you and His arms beneath you, you can face whatever is before you.