Never Compromise You are not for sale

Austin Gardner • March 22, 2024

Your character shows when faced with doing something wrong, as many quickly give in to the temptation to compromise. This applies to politicians, preachers, and others, with some selling out for more and others settling for less.



This tendency starts in childhood. If parents don't teach children that there are consequences for doing wrong and don't hold them accountable, children might resort to doing wrong to get what they want. Tantrums might receive rewards, and parents might consider saying "no" to them as cute. Later, they say “no” to teachers, “no” to Sunday School workers, “no” to the law, and even “no” to God. This might lead to trouble.

This inclination to compromise continues in youth, where some only do what’s right if it turns out well. They judge actions based on rewards or outcomes, believing that nothing is inherently right or wrong. Popularity, getting a new boyfriend, good grades—these become priorities over principles and character. Unfortunately, such individuals stand firm only until the price is high enough. They don't receive any instruction on living by principles, and their convictions waver as soon as the selling price can satisfy their desires.

This tendency grows in adulthood, leading to police scandals, crooked politicians, compromising preachers, loafers, lawbreakers, and home breakers.

From early childhood, it’s crucial for youth to learn about conviction, understanding that doing right is its own reward. They should be taught never to compromise for convenience or a fair price and to have a sign over their souls that says, “Not for Sale.”


By Austin Gardner April 10, 2026
Understanding the Fruit of the Spirit
By Austin Gardner April 9, 2026
Grace cannot be forced. It must be received
By Austin Gardner April 8, 2026
Grace didn’t renovate your past. It relocated your life
By Austin Gardner April 7, 2026
Why the Accuser Doesn't Get the Last Word
By Austin Gardner April 6, 2026
Stop Trying to Impress People
By Austin Gardner April 5, 2026
Your Release Was Written in Someone Else’s Death
By Austin Gardner April 4, 2026
When Your Past Is Chasing You and Grace Opens the Gate
By Austin Gardner April 3, 2026
Why burnout isn’t caused by too much ministry but by carrying a weight God never asked you to bear
Austin Gardner and grandson
By Austin Gardner April 2, 2026
Tired of feeling anxious about the economy? W. Austin Gardner shares how to find true confidence and rest in God's grace, moving from performance to peace.
Austin Gardner teaching on trust
By Austin Gardner April 1, 2026
Tired of performance-based leadership? Discover why spiritual impact comes from resting in God's goodness, not your own strength. Learn the secret of Psalm 147 with Austin Gardner.