Standing Firm in Difficult Times

Without a doubt, we live in a very progressive time. It seems that on a daily basis strides are made to normalize what society has previously refused to accept. We have seen laws passed, some of which were predictable, some of which were surprising. We have further seen attempts to force the acceptance of what is contrary to our values or belief system. In short, our society is changing.

With the change that is coming so rapidly, how is the Christian to respond? Well, Peter summed this up rather succinctly for us. In Acts 5 the apostles have been arrested for teaching in the name of Jesus. They were locked in prison, but God moved to set them free. After a subsequent detainment the high priest questions them. He said to them, “We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.” Peter’s answer to this questioning enlightens us as to how we are to live in our society. Peter says, “We must obey God rather than men.” In other words, we appreciate your concern but we must do what God has called us to do.

This is the perfect position for the believer today. We must obey what God has called us to do. We must follow what God has set forth. No law, no man, and no movement can impose on us anything contrary to the word of God. Keep in mind however, resistance does not have to be hostile. We do not have to display anger nor do we have to ostracize people. We can stand up for our beliefs and proclaim the truth of God’s word in love. We do not have to look any further than our own Lord and Savior to see how to accomplish this.

Obey the word of God. Stand on the word of God. Share the word of God. But, do it all in love.