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Real Answers™
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Copyright: ©2007 James J. Jackson
685 words

CORE VALUES ARE KEY TO SATISFYING LIFE

By: James J. Jackson

During a public forum on ethics and morality, one panelist stated that he believed that morality is something that is defined by each individual, based upon their frame of reference. He opined that one person’s moral view may differ from that of another.

His question was, how do you know whose view of morality is correct? Another believed that, in this age of moral relativity, truth is subjective and changeable and each person gets to define his or her own version of truth.

I stated that the best way to avoid such confusion about truth and morality is to first find and embrace indisputable truth and a moral code of values. Then all of one’s opinions and positions on issues will be viewed within the framework of that known truth and conviction. Finally, determine not to compromise in those areas.

I was asked how to find “truth” and “core values.” Core values are the basis for making life decisions and are established in conviction and integrity. Core values are interwoven into your person and do not change when you are tempted to violate those convictions for the sake of convenience.

For instance, I have a core value against stealing; therefore, I don’t have to decide whether or not to take something that is not mine, even if there is no chance of getting caught. When one has embraced the truth, as set forth in Scripture, and specifically God’s Ten Commandments, one cannot wantonly violate those Commandments.

A person with no core conviction will base actions upon opportunity rather than on morality. I have a core conviction against taking illegal drugs or committing crime; therefore, there would be no struggle when faced with temptation to do either. I have taken a conscious, principled stand against committing crime, doing drugs, lying, etc.

A core set of values means that you steadfastly adhere to a code of conduct and principles by which you order your life. When pressured to operate outside of that code, a core set of values will likely keep you from making such a mistake. The lie of moral relativity insists that there are many versions of the truth, and that is a clear deception. The Bible tells us in 2 Cor. 10, that we should, “…take every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ…“ By doing this, we fortify ourselves against blindly following people, programs or philosophical concepts that oppose our strongly held beliefs.

Compromise is often necessary in life, but not when it requires you to abandon moral values or personal integrity. It is said that if you don’t stand for something, you will fall for anything. A person who depends upon others to define their position on issues or societal trends, may not have core values.

Don’t compromise, don’t be wishy-washy, supporting one side of an issue today, another tomorrow. Be consistent. Give your children a road map that will serve them well as they navigate the often treacherous path through life. That road map and compass is the Holy Scriptures.

Embrace a core set of values for your life and teach your children values and ethics. The Ten Commandments are viewed by some as outdated and not applicable to today‘s lifestyles and morals. Not true. God’s Word is essential to ordering one’s life today. The Scriptures are eternally true, and are indispensable in embracing and teaching core values.

In answer to the question as to whose moral values one should embrace; there is only one truth, one moral code that brings about happiness. The Lord wants us to embrace His truth only, and not follow our failed human hearts. He warns us in Psalms 6, “...keep your father’s commands and do not forsake your mother’s teachings. Bind them upon your heart forever; fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you awake, they will speak to you.”

When we fail to meet His standards, God wants us to turn to Him in prayer and repentance for our sins. Through Christ, He forgives, undeservedly, and leads us to abundant life on earth and eternal life with Him.

"Real Answers™" furnished courtesy of The Amy Foundation Internet Syndicate. To contact the author or The Amy Foundation, write or E-mail to: P. O. Box 16091, Lansing, MI 48901-6091; amyfoundtn@aol.com

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