Compromised

by Jeffrey W. Hamilton

"Compromise" is an interesting word. By itself, we tend to talk about two people who find a middle ground on which they can come to an agreement. But add a "d" on the end and it means "expose or make liable to danger, suspicion, or disrepute; 'The nuclear secrets of the state were compromised by the spy.'" That is what addicts often attempt to do. They try for a middle ground where they can pretend they are doing right while continuing to use on the side. So long as they aren't using as heavily as before, they congratulate themselves on their "progress." But it is a lie. They are still addicted. They are still destroying themselves. They are still exposed to danger. They have compromised their lives and their salvation.

Jesus said, "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other" (Matthew 6:24). You claim to love God, you claim to love your family, you claim that you want to serve your country, but you keep seeking compromised positions, and so you fail. You and I both know that is why you didn't want to stay with me -- because I won't compromise when it comes to drugs and you still want to give your life over to that slave master.

It is because you continually compromise on your use of drugs that you remain an addict:

• telling yourself that a few puffs won't matter, or
• that as long as you didn't actually buy the drugs you aren't addicted to them, or
• that as long as you weren't actively seeking the drugs and they just happened to be there you aren't at fault, or
• that as long as you don't use enough to be caught by a drug test, you aren't so bad, etc.

My friend, Satan has compromised you right on the road to hell. You can't go part way. I heard your earnest thanks to God when you were freed from your charges in court. I heard you pray that you would dedicate your life to the Lord's service. I'm waiting for you to be a man and honor your word and your Lord. Compromising gives no honor.

You can do it. You did it before, you can do even better again. But you have to choose to do whatever it takes to be whole again. You can't do it on your own. You need the Lord's help, which won't come while you cling to drugs. You need your friends' help because you need them to guard your back when you are weak at the beginning.