52 Weeks of ForwardSample

Remain True To The Faith

By Pastor Dawson Oquist

"Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. "We must go through many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God," they said.” Acts 14:21B-22 (NIV)

Sharing our faith is nerve-wracking—especially now when popular culture seems to be so decidedly against the Christian faith. It seems easier to hide our beliefs to avoid difficult conversations with family, co-workers, or neighbors. Paul also understands the difficulties of living out his beliefs, so he tells his followers, “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” Not because hardships are a requirement for entry but because that is the reality of being a citizen of heaven here on earth.

Paul had just been to Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra and had experienced tremendous pushback. In obedience to God and their mission to preach the gospel, he and Barnabas were chased out of Antioch and Iconium, only for Paul to be stoned and presumed dead in Lystra. In true Paul fashion, he returns to each of those cities, encouraging believers to consider difficulties as the reality of their dual citizenship.

What about us? Have we, like Paul, counted the cost of being a true follower of Christ? If so, we should not be surprised that the world is opposed to the message we carry. We will face pushback; we should expect it. But let us not allow a fear of resistance and struggle to get in the way of advancing God’s Kingdom in our circles of influence.

Pushback from the world is not the same as pushback from God. You and I are called to partner with God in His redemptive story, so let us remain true to the faith and actively participate in that ever-unfolding plan.

MOVING FORWARD

Talk to God about fears you need to overcome. Is a need to be liked keeping you silent? Or a negative experience from sharing your faith that still hurts? Bring them to the feet of Jesus today.