But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.
Hebrews 10:39
In being a Christian of courage in a world of darkness, doubt, and despair, it requires a certain intentionality in the fight.
Of the many enemies in being courageous in our world, a primal enemy would be the temptation to shrink back.
Shrinking back is a common and deadly enemy to the Christian who wants to be bold and courageous. It is difficult because the social systems set up by the ideals of the American Dream have every reason for Christians to not be courageous.
Shrinking back is staying home, it’s moving to a safe neighborhood, it’s keeping quiet and free from trouble at work, it’s maintaining a positive image of success among peers and family, it’s fighting for my comfort and not disarming the discomforts of others less blessed.
Shrinking back is inherently selfish and carries undertones of fear and guilt.
Shrinking back, as the author of Hebrews makes mention, is not the lot for Christians. And in order to be those “who have faith” (and not fear), we must do our best in fighting every temptation to shrink back and to be safe and ineffective.
