News highlights recently seem to be focused on negotiations. Whether the NFL or political / union talks, the practice of negotiating is becoming more common.

Negotiating is an effort to reach an agreement or compromise by discussion with others. Most often, there is “give and take,” thus, compromise.

Spiritual leaders need to exercise caution when it comes to negotiating. Far too often the religious world negotiates God’s word in an attempt to appease a larger majority of people. Recently, in Colorado, several religious organizations have compromised God’s word in an attempt to promote “civil unions,” accepting and advocating homosexual marriages.

Attempts to negotiate the word of God are futile. Efforts to change God’s word will not change what is written in His word.

Spiritual leaders should not move themselves, or others, away from God and His word. Rather, leadership should be an effort toward God and His word.

Perhaps this explains Paul’s words to Timothy, “pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you,” 1 Tim. 4:16.