When Being A Christian Is Hard

“Have this attitude in yourselves, which was also in Christ Jesus…” -Philippians 2:5

Are we willing to stand up for truth—God’s truth—when it’s hard to do so?

Maybe we naively, or even pridefully, respond quickly with a head nod yes; because of course we are, right?

But wait a moment…

Are we sure?

It’s one thing to stand for God’s truth in our homes and among like-minded believers. But we can’t stay within those walls all day, every day. No, we must venture out into the world where thoughts and opinions differ, feelings get hurt and people take a stand that’s in opposition to our own. As strongly as we feel about an issue, someone else matches our passion—but with a totally different take on the matter.

How about when it’s no longer a stranger but instead a friend that we care for deeply and the relationship will be at risk if we stand firm with God’s Word? Or our job or business is in danger of folding because people know that we’re a Christian in a society that used to value it but now persecutes it? Will we trust God for His faithful provision? Can we set aside our own insecurities and be willing to feel and look awkward when we see an opportunity arise to share the life-saving Gospel?

The temptation to conform is a pitfall we get the opportunity to practice jumping over daily. As more headlines come out with happenings we never thought we’d see, we are faced with an important decision that will impact our lives, the lives of our children and those around us:

Will we curl up and conform…or will we park ourselves at the Lord’s feet and allow Him to develop a grittiness within us that can withstand anything the world throws at us?

May we recognize the power within us and the call before us—and embrace both wholly.

Dear Heavenly Father,

We pray for boldness to speak your truth, love to do so with the right motives, grace to deliver it compassionately and effectively and grit to withstand the backlash. We understand that being a Christian won’t always be easy but it will always be worth it.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.