Hobby Lobby is one of my favorite stores. I love sifting through the decorative items, picture frames and scrapbooking paraphernalia. I am SO NOT a creative person, but Hobby Lobby makes me feel like I could do something unique if I sort of tried (not that I ever do – it’s the thought that counts).
I couldn’t help noticing one Sunday that they were not open, so I googled them and found out it was due to the owner’s Christian beliefs. Honestly, I was stuck between irritation that I couldn’t shop and astonishment that they were following God’s command to rest on the Sabbath (see Exodus 20:8-11). Sigh.
Now, I’ve read that the Hobby Lobby family is standing firm against offering the ‘morning after pill’ as part of the new health care system our lawmakers have passed (google it if you want to know the details).
Regardless of political affiliation or abortion opinion, I am impressed that Hobby Lobby is standing up for what they believe God wants them to do. Kudos to them for remaining strong before a culture that says everything goes.
Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. James 5:11
The Hobby Lobby position begets me to question if I would have the fortitude to endure worldly rejection to stand firm in God’s will.
Oh boy….
The fact is that I sure hope I would prevail in the face of such a choice, but it’s likely I would break under the pressure to fit in and be liked. RATS!!! The truth stinks sometimes!
Two scriptures come to mind when I wonder about my faithfulness.
- So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. Revelation 3:16
- No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. 1Corinthians 10:13
Basically, God reminds me to follow His command and not the world around me. In addition, He requires I choose which side I’m playing for and doesn’t look kindly to those sitting on the fence. I can call myself a Christian until I’m blue in the face, but if my life doesn’t reflect my beliefs then it’s a lie. Again, RATS!
HOWEVER, the good news is that if I make the commitment to FOLLOW HIM, God, in turn, promises to LEAD ME through the temptation of the world. WHEW! Don’t know about you, but I need all the help I can get!!!
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2Corinthians 12:9
It’s NO SECRET that I am very weak, but by the grace of God I can be strong with Him by my side.
Who knows what is going to happen with the Hobby Lobby situation? But I am certain that God will guide them through their trial and bless them even when the world would persecute them.
I encourage you to pray for God’s courage, strength and endurance. May we be wise and love even when it’s not cool.
Some Wisdom for Today: Proverbs 12:22 – Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.
Kudo’s on recognizing outstanding companies for their Christian stances. I try to support companies that stand on values by “voting with my dollars”. There was a great article on Foxnews.com that you would probably enjoy. See the link below:
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/08/01/chick-fil-not-alone-in-touting-religion-alongside-products/
Wow! You hit directly in my wheelhouse this morning. After being out this last week for an industry trade show, I really have been struggling this week over whether to say something when confronted with morality issues that I see in my customers as well as peers within the companies that I represent. I have been working with a customer and see that they are doing things in their personal life that would not be acceptable in God’s eyes. I will mostly bite my tongue rather than say what my heart is telling me to say. It has really bothered me this week. There are a very small number of potentials to sell in my industry and I certainly don’t want to loose customers by being preachy or sounding like I am judging them for what they do in their private lives. On the flip-side, I have said things to people on the factory side (my side of the sale) when I have seen things that are morally wrong, but I again have been “lukewarm” when it comes to my customers. I actually read that same verse in Revelation this week and it doesn’t make me feel good about being Obedient in His Spirit. I know that God will provide, especially in Obedience, but I have not been willing to take that risk. I face the risk of not just loosing a customer, but loosing my product line & territory if sales take a tumble, which would be a substantial loss to my family’s income. Times are not robust and that is certainly a very real fear. To Quote you: “RATS”.
Thanks, Jason! Sorry I didn’t respond earlier!!! Hope you are having a great day!