Do What Is Right
Here are three stories about hard choices: (1) President Ronald Reagan supported the development of SDI because he thought it was wrong for the United States to not try to protect its people against a possible nuclear attack. Reagan was initially ridiculed for his support of SDI but it helped bring the Soviets to the bargaining table (D’Souza, Ronald Reagan, p 177-180). (2) In January 1986, President Ferdinand Marcos of the Philippines cheated in the election results against Corazon Aquino. Four of Marcos’ top government leaders joined Aquino and a bloody showdown seemed imminent. Reagan could not condone violence against the people so he urged Marcos to resign since he no longer had the people’s support. When Marcos refused to step down, Reagan insisted he leave with dignity and offered him a safe exile. Aquino was sworn in as the elected President, the United States recognized the new democratic government and Congress approved a generous aid package. Aquino’s government was appreciative to the United States for promoting a peaceful transition and proved to be both anti-communist and friendly to the U. S. (D’Souza, Ronald Reagan, p 168-169). (3) John Adams was the only lawyer who was willing to defend the British soldiers who shot Americans at the Boston Massacre. Adams got 6 of the 8 acquitted with the other 2 being charged with manslaughter. Adams lost half of his clientele as a result but it eventually led to him being more respected.
God asks us to do what is right (2 Tim 2:22, CEV). It should be our aim (2 Cor 8:21, LB). Unless we do what the Lord says is right (Heb 11:33), we will be deceived into doing what is actually wrong – with a possible result being spiritual death (Prov 14:12). If we are not habitually committed to doing what He says is right, then the Lord does not consider us to be part of His family (Ps 4:3, CW).
However, doing what we believe is right can be costly. Family and friends may not understand and even oppose us. It may reduce our income or hurt our career. We may face ridicule, as Reagan did for SDI, when his opponents disparagingly referred to SDI as ‘Star Wars.’ In addition, we may have to step into the unknown to exchange a known ally for someone who may not support our interests. This calls for courage and a willingness to go through trials – hopefully, thanking God in them (Eph 5:20; Jas 1:2-3).
Comforting others is costly but worth it.