The easy way is not God's way

Seeking comfort and not being willing to stand against sin leaves us lukewarm and vulnerable to defeat and destruction. Christians who avoid getting their hands dirty with prayer and obedience might have religious knowledge, but are developing spiritual muscle atrophy. If we stay on the couch and only eat rich foods and dream of pleasures, before long, we will not be strong enough to take care of ourselves. This is what happens in the spirit realm when the only outward sign of being a Christian is talking "about" God. Many do not read or study the Bible on their own and just remember what someone else has said. Why? Because they are lazy and have anxiety that the Lord is going to demand them to give up everything they have and follow Him. Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell the story of a rich young ruler who spoke to Jesus about how he could obtain eternal life. It's common to feel pity when we only see this as a selfish, arrogant person who would rather remain in control of their own life. However, it becomes sobering when we realize this is also a direct demand to all who call themselves disciples of Christ.

There was a time King David grew weary of his struggles. He was so tired in his soul, so embattled and beset by troubles, all he wanted was to escape to a place of rest and comfort. In Psalm 55:4-8 we read, "My heart is sore pained within me: and the terrors of death are fallen upon me... And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! For then would I fly away, and be at rest... I would hasten my escape from the windy storm and tempest." There is a valuable lesson to be learned when we substitute our responsibility to obey God with an easier, more relaxing, and pleasurable way. If you read about crabs, they are creatures that live in a rough, dangerous environment among jagged rocks. Crabs are constantly pummeled by the waves and attacked on every side by creatures from deeper waters. Their lives are a continual battle to protect themselves, but over time, they develop an endurance, a strong shell, and powerful instincts for survival. However, some give up the struggle and search for a more complacent way to live by taking up residence in the abandoned shells of other ocean dwellers. These crabs are known as hermit crabs. They escape the hard work to relax in comfort.

However, when the crabs become inactive and stop fighting the good fight, atrophy sets in, and their bodies deteriorate. Even their organs wither due to lack of use, and eventually they lose all power of motion, as well as the ability to defend themselves from their enemies. As their claws fall off, they are left with a powerless existence. Likewise, going through the motions of a nominal and mediocre religious existence is not what God wants. When the Christian surrenders to the temptation to live in carnality, they no longer care about being a living sacrifice. Yes, the battle is hard, and it's much easier to hide in the shell of religion than to actually do what God is demanding. Read Matthew 24:13-15.

Ephesians chapter six talks about the seven types of armor that Christians have been commanded to wear in this life, as God has called us to be fearless warriors in the battle against evil. We have the helmet, breastplate, shield, sword, boots, the belt, and the most important weapon - prayer. When a soldier engages the adversary, they are protected from the front, but there is no mention of protection from the back. The call to war is to stand firm against the enemy, as this allows faith and power in God's name to boldly confront the darkness face to face. The saint must not turn and run away in fear, as this exposes their back, and they become a vulnerable target to be easily brought down with deadly arrows and spears. It would be better to remain in prayer and continue developing wisdom, discernment, and faith than to participate in spiritual warfare unprepared. Remember the true account in Mathew 17:19-21. Awaken, and take your place on the front lines today! The devil tries to persuade us to take it easy, but remember, his mission is to steal, kill, and destroy. As a liar and deceiver, he appears to be friendly and tries to persuade us with compromises, but is holding a dagger behind his back.

Dr. Holland is a minister, chaplain, and author. Learn more about the Christian life at billyhollandministries.com.