Proverbs 23:1-2 When you sit down to dine with a ruler, consider carefully what is set before you, and put a knife to your throat if you possess a great appetite.
“Sore Thumb sticks out.”
Sore thumb attracts attention because it hurts, annoys and irritates. We are called to live like sore thumbs in this world. The scriptures reiterate over and over again not to conform to the ways, traditions and the culture of this world. It is easy to take a glass of Champagne to propose a toast in an office get-together than to say ‘no’ to alcohol. In the name of integration many indulge in ‘the drinking and clubbing culture’ just to fit in. If we fit in, we will not stand out for the Lord. We are called to stand out – like a sore thumb!
Daniel and his friends were in a very precarious position. They were part of a big official gathering of a bunch of brilliant young Hebrew men. These young adults were taken into Babylon as captive but the brightest young men were given special privileges. The slaves were recognized, given elite accommodation in the palace and served exquisite meals. They were given full scholarships to train in the Babylonian University. They were also served the king’s menu every day. However, the choicest cuisine in the country was first offered to their deity, Marduk before it was served. But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way (Daniel 1;8). Daniel and the boys choose to stand out like a sore thumb.
Stand Out:
1. Say No: There are parties, places and phone calls that we must say ‘no’. If we fail to say ‘no’ we will fall into the sin of compromise.
2. Speak Up: There are times we must speak up to express our disagreement to the norms of the world. However, the truth must be expressed with love and respect.
3. Significance: Conforming to the ways of the world could be a shortcut to success but when we standout like a sore thumb, to what is right, pure and praiseworthy we will make an indelible mark of significance.
Stand out, speak up and say no.
Prayer: Dearest Lord Jesus, Give me the courage to stand up for my faith. Amen.
Leave a Reply