Stand Faithfully With Christ

By Tim Boyd

July 2012

Years ago, John F. Kennedy wrote a book which caught the imagination of the American people. It was called “Profiles in Courage.” It dealt with the stories of Americans who had shown extraordinary courage in difficult circumstances.

The book of Daniel also shared a story of great courage. It concerned Daniel’s three friends (Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego). They were faced with the most difficult choice anyone of faith could face. They had to worship the king’s idol or face death. Now, those of us who know the entire story are tempted to say that it was not a difficult decision because surely God was going to save them.

However, they had no reason to expect that. They knew that God could do it, but they did not know if He would choose to do so. That is what makes their stand before the king so courageous. They were prepared to die, if necessary, in order to stay faithful to God.

We live in an age where the challenges of following the faith are not as danger-laden as those faced by Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. However, there are subtle influences all around us that pressure us to yield.

We are charged with intolerance when we hold to positions taught in the Bible, such as considering homosexuality a sin. We are asked to accept a new definition of marriage which runs contrary to scripture. We are charged with being too exclusive when we believe, as the Bible teaches, that Jesus Christ is the only Son of God and the only path to peace with God.

With the implementation of the new government health system that has been popularly called Obamacare, a new challenge faces us. Hospitals, doctors and nurses who hold Christian beliefs will be forced to perform services which run contrary to faith. To follow Christ, many will have to defy the law.

In days to come, we may have to exhibit courage like that of our biblical example. The pressure to yield to popular culture will surely grow as our culture moves farther from biblical truth. How will we respond? We must stand faithfully with Christ and uphold biblical truth. We must continue to teach the truth of Christ in love. Pray and prepare to join the battle for the gospel.

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