The “art of compromise” involves finding mutually beneficial solutions in disagreements by making concessions and finding middle ground. Finding win-win solutions is the goal of compromising where one doesn’t give everything but to find a solution where both parties feel their needs are being met to some extent. It calls for honest communication.
The “art of negotiation” is a multifaceted skill involving communication, compromise, and conflict resolution to reach mutually beneficial agreements. It’s a strategic process where parties with different needs and viewpoints seek to find common ground and resolve disagreements. Effective negotiations involve active listening, empathy, clear objectives, and a focus on win-win solutions.
It has come to be very clear that neither of these effective strategies are used in the realm of politics. It is more like a hostage situation. The less tenured the less power you have so when you introduce a bill it is pushed aside until you agree to vote yes to the more tenured legislature’s bills even if those bills gut your integrity, morality, conscience, values, dignity, principles, and self-respect.
I have watched enough floor sessions to see how much intimidation affects the legislators. The scolding is intense and if this is how it is when the public can see I can only imagine how contentious it is behind closed doors. I do commend the small group who do not vote at the whim of the committee chairs. I am sure it can’t be easy not to have one of your bills heard on the floor because the chair has targeted you as the bad seed on the committee. The ugly consequences of non-compliance. Certainly deserves grace from voters.
Psalm 119 is lengthy, but it really does reflect what the minority must go through in a political cycle. God’s law vs. man’s law. It highlights the role of leading a life of obedience to God where His word is a lamp to one’s feet. The Psalm is a great source of comfort and strength when you are hard pressed from every side to bend to the will of man over the truth you know you should not compromise.
“Though I am lowly and despised, I do not forget your precepts. Your righteousness is everlasting and your law is true. Trouble and distress have come upon me, but your commands give me delight. Your statutes are always righteous; give me understanding that I may live” (Psalm 119: 141-144).
Influential prophets in the Bible who did not compromise their message despite facing opposition and persecution. Their unwavering obedience and faithfulness of prophets who prioritized God's word above all else, even when it meant facing adversity and potential harm. Their stories serve as reminders of the importance of courage and conviction in standing for truth.
-Micaiah: He boldly delivered God's true prophecy to King Ahab, even though the king and other prophets preferred to hear a message of peace and victory. He stood firm in his conviction, even when imprisoned for his words, knowing that God's word would prevail.
-Jeremiah: Jeremiah was called to deliver challenging messages of judgment and repentance to the people of Judah, who often rejected and persecuted him. Despite facing mockery, ridicule, and threats of death, he remained faithful to God's calling. He is described as a "reluctant but faithful prophet".
-Elijah: He fearlessly challenged the false prophets of Baal, demonstrating the power of God and leading the people back to worship the true God. He faced threats from Queen Jezebel but remained obedient to God's instructions.
-Zechariah: He was stoned to death for rebuking the people for turning away from God and embracing idolatry. He stood firm in his convictions, even in the face of death, serving as a testimony to his loyalty to God.
-Uriah: Like Jeremiah, Uriah delivered messages of warning and judgment to the people, which led to his persecution by King Jehoiakim. Despite trying to escape, he was apprehended and executed for his prophetic message.
-John the Baptist: He was a powerful prophet who was persecuted and imprisoned for publicly rebuking King Herod. He ultimately faced beheading for his uncompromising stance. The prophet in the wilderness who baptized Jesus before He began His earthly ministry.
Prayers for those facing adversity who are serving God in the public square. Those who are enduring hardship for standing in truth. Who are being attacked by enemies, but do not yield. Prayers more people would be engaged and supportive of those who represent you but are experiencing the persecution on your behalf.
dreamsdontfade.com
Politics if interested:
Time to influence the governor's office. I consolidated from all the lists I get. My last page is the bills headed there so hope it makes it easier for you to go in and write to the governor. If you have a bill you want me to add then let me know. https://sites.google.com/view/tanya-attebery-dreamsdontfade/2025-sessions-committees-calendars/2025-legislation-pass-it-or-veto-it/governors-desk?authuser=0
This is such a comforting song by Big Daddy Weave, “I’ve Just Seen Too Much.”
If you ask me how I know, I know He's real
I could believe that He's still with me
In spite of how it feels
If you ask me why I trust Him
When it feels like everything has come undone
All I can tell you is I've just seen too much
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5abqIOfl8VM