Ends Aren’t Justified

Read

Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Think

In the hustle of life, when deadlines loom and pressures mount, it can be tempting to cut corners—especially when it feels like the right thing to do for the greater good. But as followers of Christ, we’re held to a different standard. I remember Greg, who was in desperate need of a job. He had been unemployed for months, bills were piling up, and his family was struggling. When he finally landed an interview for a position he’d been praying for, Greg felt a glimmer of hope. However, during the interview, something happened that put his integrity to the test.

After glancing over Greg’s resume, the interviewer hinted they were looking for someone who could "bend the rules" when necessary. At that moment, Greg’s heart sank. His family’s future hung in the balance, and the thought of turning down this opportunity was gut-wrenching. But deep down, he knew he couldn’t compromise his values, no matter how desperate the situation seemed. Greg politely thanked the interviewer, closed the door, and walked away from what might have been his only shot at a stable income. He trusted that walking in Christ’s ways was more important than securing the job at any cost.

Greg’s story resonates because we’ve all faced moments when we’re tempted to take the easy road. But Jesus never called us to pursue success at the expense of our character. He never asked us to accomplish things for him in ways that look nothing like him. The world may applaud cutting corners or using questionable means to reach a goal, but as believers, we can’t fight for God using the enemy’s weapons. Jesus was clear: integrity matters more than the outcome. The journey matters as much as the destination. So when you’re tempted to justify a shortcut or compromise, remember Greg’s story—and remember that following Jesus is about reflecting his ways, even when it’s hard. True success is found in honoring him every step of the way.

Apply

When faced with a difficult decision, pause and ask yourself, “Does this choice reflect the character of Jesus?” If the answer is no, take a step back, pray for guidance, and trust that doing things God's way will always lead to a better outcome in the long run.

Pray

Heavenly Father, help me walk in your ways, even when it’s hard, or I feel pressured to take shortcuts. Give me the strength to trust you and the courage to stand firm in my integrity. Remind me that true success is found in following you, no matter the cost. In Jesus’ name. Amen.