1 Peter 5:8-11 “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
In today’s world, the concept of ‘truth’ often feels subjective. Many people believe that morality is relative, with phrases like “live your truth” and “do what feels right” shaping popular culture. This philosophy of moral relativism can create tension for Christians, who believe in absolute truths grounded in Scripture. As followers of Christ, we’re called to stand firm in our faith and uphold God’s standards, even when society promotes conflicting values. How can we navigate a culture of moral relativism while staying true to our beliefs?
1. Embracing God’s Word as our foundation
The Bible is our guide and foundation, offering timeless wisdom and truth.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.”
While societal values may shift, God’s Word remains constant, providing clarity and guidance. When we build our lives on Scripture, we gain a solid foundation that doesn’t waver with cultural changes.
Embracing God’s Word as our foundation means not only reading it but internalizing it and applying it to our daily lives. By making time for regular Bible study, we strengthen our understanding of God’s truth, allowing it to shape our decisions and values. God’s Word equips us to discern right from wrong, giving us the confidence to stand firm, even when the world around us disagrees.
2. Living with love and compassion
While standing firm in faith is important, so is showing love and compassion to those who may hold different beliefs. Jesus modelled this beautifully, interacting with people of all backgrounds with kindness and respect.
John 13:34-35 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
We can uphold our values without being judgmental or condemning. By approaching others with humility, listening to their perspectives, and treating them with dignity, we reflect Christ’s love. Our actions often speak louder than words and showing compassion can open doors for meaningful conversations about faith.
3. Practicing discernment in media and entertainment
Media and entertainment often promote ideas and values that contradict biblical truth. To stand firm in our faith, it’s essential to practice discernment in what we consume. Philippians 4:8 encourages us to focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Choosing to engage with media that aligns with these values helps us guard our hearts and minds.
Discernment doesn’t mean avoiding all forms of media but rather being intentional about what we allow to influence us. By evaluating content through the lens of Scripture, we protect our faith and avoid becoming desensitized to values that don’t honour God. Practicing discernment strengthens our commitment to God’s truth, enabling us to navigate culture without compromising our beliefs.
4. Finding strength in Christian community
Navigating a culture of moral relativism can feel isolating, but we’re not meant to do it alone. Being part of a Christian community provides support, encouragement, and accountability.
Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another.”
In a faith community, we can openly discuss challenges, ask questions, and seek guidance from others who share our beliefs. Having a support system helps us stay grounded in our faith and provides a safe space to process our experiences. Together, we can pray, study Scripture, and encourage one another to stay true to God’s standards.
Staying true to God’s standards
In a world that promotes moral relativism, standing firm in faith requires courage, wisdom, and love. By grounding ourselves in Scripture, living with compassion, practicing discernment, and finding strength in Christian community, we can uphold God’s truth while engaging with the world around us. Standing firm doesn’t mean isolating ourselves or rejecting those with different beliefs – it means living authentically and lovingly as followers of Christ.
As we navigate a culture of shifting values, let’s remember that God’s truth is unchanging. By staying rooted in Him, we find peace, strength, and purpose. May our lives be a testimony to His love, grace, and truth, inviting others to experience the freedom and hope found in a relationship with Christ.