King Solomon wrote in Proverbs 23:23,

“Buy the truth and do not sell it—
    wisdom, instruction and insight as well.”

When I was growing up, I vividly remember my mother hosting numerous garage or yard sales. I wasn’t particularly fond of these events because I was usually tasked with putting prices on a litany of items in the early hours of the morning. I would also have to sit near tables of miscellaneous items just waiting for someone to stop by. For a young kid, this was nothing short of torture.

But what I noticed about garage sales was that the majority of items being sold were things that we either considered junk, clothes too small or outdated, and other things that may have simply just taken up space.

The items were also sold at a discount value. I remember seeing my mother put $1 on selective clothing and just being stunned and surprised.

In reflecting upon these memories, I was once again brought back to the wise words of Solomon: 

Then he taught me, and he said to me,
    “Take hold of my words with all your heart;
    keep my commands, and you will live.
Get wisdom, get understanding;
    do not forget my words or turn away from them.
Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you;
    love her, and she will watch over you.
The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom.
    Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
Cherish her, and she will exalt you;
    embrace her, and she will honor you.
She will give you a garland to grace your head
    and present you with a glorious crown.”

-Proverbs 4:4-9

Knowledge isn’t obtained at a garage sale. It’s acquired through learning, education, and reading.

And how is wisdom obtained? Let’s look at James 3:17-18:

“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

-James 3:17-18

There are just some things that should be embedded within the DNA of a believer: the love of God, forgiveness, grace, mercy, holiness, kindness, temperance, just to name a few.

In a day and age where compromising integrity seems to be a regular occurrence, it’s imperative that believers don’t compromise their morals and faith. Our faith is our identity, and we must never discount it or put it in a proverbial garage sale simply for political convenience or for the sake of gaining popularity.

If believers refuse to compromise, they will win over skeptics and those who desire to live a more fulfilled life. However, if they sell their morals or cheapen their values, they will not only come across as hypocrites, but could also incur spiritual damage to the generations that will follow us.

Demetrius Minor

Demetrius Minor is a minister, author, and political commentator. He is a former radio talk show host and television personality. He is also a member of the Project 21 advisory board of black conservative leaders across the United States. He and his wife, Riesa, serve on the leadership staff at Tampa Life Church in Tampa, FL.