“So to pacify the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He ordered Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip, then turned him over to the Roman soldiers to be crucified.” v. 15 (NLT)
Have you ever been caught in the middle? The crowd says one thing but you know God says another. These are tough times where we have to make decisions based on what we know is right. Although Jesus was innocent to Roman Law, Pilate caved in to political pressure. He abandoned what he knew was right. Trying to second-guess the Jewish leaders, Pilate gave a decision that would please everyone while keeping himself safe. When we ignore God’s clear statements of right and wrong and make decisions based on the preference of the crowd, we fall into compromise and lawlessness. God promises to honor those who do right, not those who make everyone happy.
Today, take a stand for what you know is right! Yes, it might be difficult, but is compromise really a better option?
Dan Gould 