Many have a mistaken view of what it means to be a Christian. Some, out of ignorance, mock the faith and those who strive to live it sincerely. They see the Christian life as dull, restrictive, and lacking excitement — as if following Christ means living without joy, adventure, or “real life.”
Others, out of arrogance, turn away from it altogether — dismissing it as weak, outdated, or unnecessary.
But nothing could be further from the truth.
Recently, I came across two powerful quotes from one of my favorite books, Help in Daily Living, that perfectly capture what the Christian life is really about. If you’ve ever doubted or misunderstood what it takes to be a follower of Christ, take a moment to read and reflect on these words:
“The Christian life is more than many take it to be. It does not consist wholly in gentleness, patience, meekness, and kindliness. These graces are essential; but there is need also of courage, force, energy, and perseverance. The path that Christ marks out is a narrow, self-denying path. To enter that path and press on through difficulties and discouragements requires men who are more than weaklings.”
(Help in Daily Living, p.41)
“There is in true Christian character an indomitableness that cannot be molded or subdued by adverse circumstances. We must have moral backbone — an integrity that cannot be flattered, bribed, or terrified.”
(Help in Daily Living, p.42)
These words shake off the false idea that Christianity is for the timid or fainthearted. True Christianity requires courage — courage to stand firm when the world mocks your faith, courage to do right when it’s unpopular, courage to keep walking the narrow path when it feels lonely and hard.
The Christian life is not a call to comfort. It’s a call to character. It’s not for cowards.
Christianity is for the courageous.
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