That may seem rather harsh but I have witnessed it far too often where someone likes the trappings (titles, image, etc.)of Christianity but when ‘push comes to shove’ will not fight for their faith. Paul was accused of this by the church in Corinth in 2 Cor. 10:1. He felt as though they thought of him as bold only when he was at a distance from the concern at hand. So it is for many of us who may speak out only when we have ‘nothing to loose’ or ‘nothing on the line’.

So what causes spiritual cowardice. The first example is seen in Gen. 12:11-13. Abram one of the heroes of our faith showed this when in fear of his life was willing to give up his wife Sarai to the Egyptian Pharaoh. God protected Sarai from the foolish action of Abram (soon to be Abraham) as I believe he protects innocent faithful bystanders today as well. Nevertheless fear for your life makes many a coward. This is somewhat similar to what Aaron (Moses brother) shared when confronted by his fellow Israelites to construct a golden calf for idol worship (Exodus 32:22-24). Aaron’s life may not have been in danger but he still feared others for what they might do or say. This fear is common among many of us. We don’t speak out when and where it matters when it comes to matters of faith in our churches, schools and communities. We need to be less concerned what others think and more about what God thinks.

What many if not most Christians lack is belief in themselves and our God. This unbelief was seen in the Israelites in Numbers 13:28-33. Fear that the opposition is bigger, stronger, etc. causes us today to back down needlessly as well. Whether individually or with group support wrong must always be confronted.

Finally we have fear of rulers or those in authority. This was seen in John 9:22. Certainly we should respect the office in which a person serves but they who hold the office are mere mortals like us. They make mistakes (most especially if not guided by Scripture) as well as us. As Christians it is time for us to put SPIRITUAL COWARDICE behind us and stand up for Christ Jesus and His plan for humanity.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: Spiritual cowardice is contrary to what Christ would wish for we His congregation.

DEVOTIONAL VERSE FOR TODAY: 2 Cor. 10:1 “cause for cowardice”.

PRAYER FOR TODAY: Lord may I never be a spiritual coward.

QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT:

1. Do you speak up when Christian faith is under attack?

2. Where is faith under attack today?

3. How can you address these attacks?

4. What one area today can you stand up for Jesus at?

*** Gary Jerke *** Is a  former State Representative, author and Life and Liberty News contributor

   View Gary’s website, Encouraging Others in Christ