Justin, I believe you’re off base in claiming that standing up for truth is only a one time experience of discomfort. It only takes one time to be “that guy,” who is no longer invited to meetings, whose opinion isn’t sought, and sees a shift in their performance reviews. There is little tolerance for setting the record straight in much of corporate America. Particularly when bonuses and merit increases are highly influenced by being a team player. To not include this risk in considerations of one’s actions up front, is to almost certainly be surprised at the results. These consequences shouldn’t change a believer’s approach to standing up for truth, but it’s best to have eyes wide open in such circumstances.
The more I sat with this the less I liked my original response. You are absolutely correct in your statement about being labled as “that guy”. That is a risk. In the end though, I would rather be “that guy” and sit with Jesus when my time comes knowing that I wasn’t worried about the thoughts of man.
Galatians 1:10 (ESV) - For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
I am ok being “that guy” and not being invited to meetings, potentially being let go from a position, passed over for promotions, etc. in exchange for the comfort of knowing that I was persecuted for Christ.
Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake…Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.
You are absolutely correct. As I was writing this I was thinking about my experiences only, but you are absolutely correct. It is really easy to be labeled as "that guy" and that could easily lead to downstream consequences. Great insight!
Justin, I believe you’re off base in claiming that standing up for truth is only a one time experience of discomfort. It only takes one time to be “that guy,” who is no longer invited to meetings, whose opinion isn’t sought, and sees a shift in their performance reviews. There is little tolerance for setting the record straight in much of corporate America. Particularly when bonuses and merit increases are highly influenced by being a team player. To not include this risk in considerations of one’s actions up front, is to almost certainly be surprised at the results. These consequences shouldn’t change a believer’s approach to standing up for truth, but it’s best to have eyes wide open in such circumstances.
The more I sat with this the less I liked my original response. You are absolutely correct in your statement about being labled as “that guy”. That is a risk. In the end though, I would rather be “that guy” and sit with Jesus when my time comes knowing that I wasn’t worried about the thoughts of man.
Galatians 1:10 (ESV) - For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
I am ok being “that guy” and not being invited to meetings, potentially being let go from a position, passed over for promotions, etc. in exchange for the comfort of knowing that I was persecuted for Christ.
Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake…Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.
God bless you!
You are absolutely correct. As I was writing this I was thinking about my experiences only, but you are absolutely correct. It is really easy to be labeled as "that guy" and that could easily lead to downstream consequences. Great insight!