Learning To Stand Alone
Learning To Stand Alone • Sermon • Submitted
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Why must we stand alone?
The ability to "stand alone" for that which is
right is one of the clearest evidences of maturity.
This ability is the heritage of a dedicated Christian
who has discovered and verbally identified with a
superior way of life.
When a Christian "stands alone" in doing
what is right or refusing to do what is wrong, he is
saying to the Lord, "I revere You and Your Word,"
and he is saying to the world, "I have something
worth standing for."
This type of commitment attracts people who are looking for something
worth living for, and it builds mature qualities of
leadership in the one who takes a stand.
He looked for people who "stood alone."
The leadership qualities which are developed
through "standing alone" are being recognized in
the business world. The president of a growing cor-
portion gave the following explanation as to why
his personnel director was so successful in selecting
qualified staff for executive positions.
"When the personnel director interviews a
person for leadership, he will ask him about his
family, his education, and his hobbies, but he is
really looking for only one thing: "Has this person
ever had an experience when it cost him something
for standing up for doing right?"
This personnel director has discovered over
the years that if an individual has never had an
experience in which he "stood alone" for doing
right, he would not make a good leader of men.
When he selects an executive, he rarely misses selecting the best man.
situations in which we must "stand alone." By
picturing them in our minds and visualizing our
response to them, we will be "ready always to give
an answer." We will also demonstrate the kind of
wisdom described in
3 A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: But the simple pass on, and are punished.
There are three questions we must ask about situations before "standing alone" in them:
IS THIS A SITUATION THAT I SHOULD NOT BE IN?
There is no glory in "standing alone" in a situation in which God never intended us to be involved. It is not wise, for example, for a Christian to accompany a friend to a bar and then feel that he is "standing alone" because he refuses a drink. In such a situation he would be violating the overriding principle of avoiding all appearance of evil. (See I Thessalonians 5:22.)
The same would be true for one who attends a dance and tries to "stand alone" by saying "no" to some aspect of the evening's
activities. God's prior command is to "flee youthful lusts." (See Il Timothy 2:22.)
Baalam stood for truth when the king asked him to curse Israel, but he was cooperating
with God's enemies, and God judged him for it. David found himself in a difficult situation when
he went to a Philistine city for refuge and he felt he had to be deceptive in order to escape danger.
HOW TO TEACH SONS AND DAUGHTERS TO “STAND ALONE” THE IMPORTANCE OF SONS AND DAUGHTERS "STANDING ALONE" FOR TRUTH
• Parents give their sons and daughters purpose in life when the family has Scriptural convictions which are worth living for and worth dying for.
• The desire to "stand alone" is the heritage of
those who know by experience that following
Scriptural principles constitutes a superior way
of life.
• "Standing alone" for God's truth begins with an
inward attitude and expresses itself in outward
words and actions.
• The motivation to “stand-alone” is a wholesome
fear of the Lord and a confident assurance of His presence and supernatural power.
• The ability to “stand-alone” comes by the desire and power of God's grace as we walk in harmony
with the Holy Spirit.
What begins to occur when we make the decision to “stand-alone”?
• The DECISION to stand alone unites salvation
and daily walk - Il Peter 1:4.
"Whereby are given unto us exceeding great
and precious promises: that by these ye might be
partakers of the divine nature, having escaped
the corruption that is in the world through lust"
(Il Peter 1:4).
What is the first important step in teaching your sons and
daughters to "stand alone'?
1 EXPLAIN THREE BASIC CONCEPTS BEHIND
STANDING ALONE.
What if my children react to rules?
• Concepts turn "rules" into exciting
"insights" - Psalm 19:8
8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
(Psalm 19:10-11
10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: And in keeping of them there is great reward.
When sons and daughters understand the basic concepts behind "standing alone," rules no longer appear as "fence posts" limiting their freedom, but as "sign posts" warning them of danger.
Scriptural principles are like laws of nature; they are universal and non-optional.
They apply to the non-Christian as well as to the
Christian. If any principle is broken, a predictable
consequence will follow. Because of this cause-
and-effect sequence, it is wise to work out rules
based on principles.
Based on the law of gravity, for example,
rules are needed to protect a person from stepping
over a high ledge. This practical rule is contained
in God's Law by the instruction that home
builders are to construct a railing around the
roof. Failure to do so made the builder liable for
anyone who would fall from the roof. See
8 When thou buildest a new house, then thou shalt make a battlement for thy roof, that thou bring not blood upon thine house, if any man fall from thence.
Sir Isaac Newton shed new light on gravity and
color by explaining the principles behind them.
Our Christian forefathers understood Biblical principles and the rules which logically flowed from them. However, many forefathers passed on to their children only the rules. Their children did not understand the principles from which the rules came and began to reject some of them.
When these children grew up and tried to pass on inconsistent rules to their children, there was further reaction and rejection. A further problem also developed based on the tendency to make rigid and stereotyped application of rules when the principle is forgotten.
The style of the "railing" may change from generation to generation; however, the principle of gravity and the rule to have a protection does not change.
The great need today is for parents to explain basic life principles to their sons and daughters and then work with their children to identify Biblical "guidelines" to ensure that these principles will not be violated.
How do parents prepare children to
"stand alone"?
2 We Learn to Teach Others
TEACH THE ACTUAL RESPONSES THEY
MUST USE.
Can a child “stand-alone” without saying a word?
• The importance of verbalizing
15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
God's work is accomplished through words.
He created the world by the Word of His power. He
designed Christians to be witnesses of His truth.
Silence is too often understood by the world as
approval or rejection of them, and the basic issues
are never properly addressed.
What is the best phrase to use "standing alone”
• Explain the phrase: “I’m a believer in Jesus, I’m a Christian, and I want to please Him.”
32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.
This phrase can be very effective with those
who are non-Christians. However, some of the
most difficult "standing alone" situations are
required with other Christians. Rather than using
this phrase with them, explain the concept if the
person is not a scorner.
DISCERNING WISE RESPONSES BY IDENTIFYING FIVE TYPES OF FOOLS
"Standing alone" requires a clear under- standing of the types of people with whom we speak. To those who would understand, we should explain more. To those who would not understand, we should say far less.
Often people who ask us to do evil are those whom Scripture identifies as foolish people. Scripture goes on to define five types of fools and gives
clear instruction for responding to each one:
1. THE "SIMPLE"
He is without knowledge and easily seduced.
He needs to be instructed, and we should try to do
this with Scriptural principles.
2. THE "REACTIONARY FOOL"
He simply wants his own way. He needs to be
disciplined. We should direct him back to his God-
given authorities.
3. THE "SILLY FOOL"
He is only interested in a good time. He
needs major reproofs. If appropriate, we should try
to explain to him how he is violating Scriptural
principles, and we should avoid him until he
corrects his ways.
4. THE "SCORNER”
He has rejected truth and delights in mocking
Christians and their standards. He will hate a
reprover and blot his name. Remove yourself
from him.
5. THE “SCORNER”
He is the victim of his own passions. He is
committed to teaching you. We should reject his
teachings and have no association with him.
For further information, see Men's Manual, Volume I, pages 95-96.
What is the normal response to a Christian who
"stands alone"?
• Anticipate positive and negative responses
23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
How some have stood alone…
How can you prepare wise responses for different
situations?
• Give right words based on concepts •
15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
Having a "prepared answer" produces
confidence in the one who has it. When another person senses this confidence, he is more hesitant to ask this person to do something which he himself knows is not right.
This confidence, however, must be balanced by meekness, and our answers must be based upon a clear application of Scripture. To gain a solid footing in Scripture,
15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
How can I help others stand?
3 MAKE A COMMITMENT TO BE "ON CALL."
Just as God stands ready to assist the Christian
who calls upon Him, so parents should assure their
children that whenever they face a special "standing
alone" situation or need, they as parents will drop
whatever they are doing and give the proper
assistance.
If they are unable to reach you, the children
should have an alternate phone number of a Godly
friend who can be called in a time of need.
Certain occasions may require one or both
parents to reinforce the stand that a son or
daughter has taken against evil. This reinforcement may be given by their physical presence or by a physical contact from the parents. When parents
do reinforce a child's "stand against evil", it is important for the parents to have the goal of clarifying the truth upon which the son or daughter is standing
and in all cases to show a genuine spirit of meekness
and sincerity.
What assurance does a son or daughter need in order to
"'stand alone?”
• The ability to stand alone comes by knowing that we are not alone -
20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
. lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end
of the world. Amen" (Matthew 28:20).
Mordecai was honored for "standing alone.
The success of Esther's "standing alone" before the king came because of her uncle who was watching, praying, and available outside the gate.
She remained under the protection of his counsel, and therefore knew that he was with her in spirit while she was away from him.
Mordecai was able to give wise and strong counsel to Esther because he was also'
"standing alone" by not bowing in worship to wicked Haman.
God rewarded Mordecai when the king commanded his enemy to lead him through the city in honor.
An additional message of Mordecai's life is demonstrated in his Godly respect for the king and support of the king during a time when others reacted to him.
What response should a father expect when he presents
the material on "standing alone " to his sons and daughters?
4. ASK FOR VERBAL COMMITMENTS.
• Record decision in life notebook, then add
results as they happen. This will be a
powerful visible record - Psalm 136
Making a decision to "stand alone" should follow the same procedure as any other decision made to the Lord. First, the child should under- stand as fully as possible the meaning and significance of his decision. Second, the decision must be based clearly on Scriptural authority. The decision should be made to the Lord, not just to the parents.
"O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good:
for his mercy endureth for ever" (Psalm 136:1).
16 Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: And the Lord hearkened, and heard it, And a book of remembrance was written before him For them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name.
Fearing the Lord is connected to hating evil - when you hate evil, it offends people who love evil
How can a child's decision to "stand alone" be
reinforced?
5 READ THROUGH THE BIBLE AS A FAMILY.
• Point out illustrations of standing alone •
I Timothy 3:16-17.
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God,
and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for
correction, for instruction in righteousness: That
the man of God may be perfect, throughly
furnished unto all good works" (Il Timothy
3:16-17).
Daniel was protected while "standing alone. It would be important to point out to sons and daughters that there was often an immediate price to pay when a Godly man or woman in Scripture "stood alone"; however, that "price" turned out to
be the very means through which God exalted them to higher positions and opportunities. Daniel "stood alone" and was sent to the lion's den. Then he was given a new position of authority in the kingdom. Joseph "stood alone." and because he did, he was sentenced to prison. But from there he was exalted to the position of second highest ruler in Egypt. Esther "stood alone", and by so doing put her life in jeopardy. However, through her stand God's enemies were destroyed, and she and her people were not only spared from death but also highly honored throughout the empire.
6 GET PROMISE TO REPORT
OPPORTUNITIES TO STAND ALONE.
• Take time to evaluate attitudes and words
5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
6 From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;
When a Christian
"stands alone" against compromise or evil doing, it usually causes immediate conviction and reaction from those who are involved in or give approval to the action being questioned. These individuals will usually not reevaluate the activity if they can find some justification to condemn or discredit the Christian who opposes it.
Therefore, God warns us to have the attitude
of meekness whenever we must "stand alone" or
instruct those who oppose God's righteous standards.
(See Il Timothy 2:24-26.)
Meekness involves an attitude of humility
before God and others, combined with a loving
firmness to carry out God's will whatever the cost.
Meekness is yielding our rights in deference to the
clear commands of Scripture.
How will "standing alone" enrich the fellowship and
communication within a family?
• It will reinforce principles (mealtimes,
bedtimes) - Deuteronomy 6:7
7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
FAMILY SESSION TO EXPLAIN STANDING ALONE
What is the correct motivation to "stand alone"?
• THE MOTIVATION TO STAND ALONE MUST BE
BASED ON LOVING THE LORD, NOT REACTING TO PEOPLE - Psalm 119:97-104
97 MEM. O how love I thy law! It is my meditation all the day.
98 Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: For they are ever with me.
99 I have more understanding than all my teachers: For thy testimonies are my meditation.
100 I understand more than the ancients, Because I keep thy precepts.
101 I have refrained my feet from every evil way, That I might keep thy word.
102 I have not departed from thy judgments: For thou hast taught me.
103 How sweet are thy words unto my taste! Yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: Therefore I hate every false way.
WHAT ARE GOD'S PREREQUISITES TO "STANDING ALONE"?
Receiving Jesus Christ as our personal Savior
and becoming a child of God (See Romans 10:9
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
Renewing our mind with the truths of God's
Word and beginning to see life from God's point of
view (See Romans 12:2
2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Becoming obedient to the promptings of the
Holy Spirit and applying God's truth to daily living
(See Romans 8:13
13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
Identifying with Christ's death, burial, and
resurrection and drawing upon His power to do
what is right (See Romans 6-8
Loving the Lord to the point where we are more concerned about protecting His reputation than about pleasing ourselves (See John 14:21
21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
Realizing that we are not really alone because
God will never forsake us (See Matthew 28:20
20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Realizing that rejection and persecution immediately bring more of God's grace and that it is God's grace that gives us the desire and power to
do His will (See James 4:6
6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
Learning Scriptural concepts and applying
them to daily situations (See Proverbs 3:6
6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.
105 NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, And a light unto my path.
Having an attitude of humility before God
and man without any trace of pride or rebellion
"The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and
arrogance, and the evil way .. " (Proverbs 8:13).
Having a true hatred of evil and not secretly
wanting to do what we condemn as evil in others
(See Romans 2:1
1 Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things.
"Standing alone" is actually motivated
by having a proper fear of the Lord and
by understanding the cause-and-effect
relationships that come from violating
God's principles.
How does independence grow by "standing alone"?
• ONLY WHEN CHILDREN PURPOSE TO STAND ALONE CAN PARENTS EXPAND THEIR FREEDOM WITH CONFIDENCE - Psalm 144:12
12 That our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth; That our daughters may be as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace:
When parents are confident that a son or daughter will make wise and Godly decisions, they are able to give that son or daughter increased responsibility with its accompanying freedoms.