When difficulty arises, we have two choices: faithfully follow Christ or forsake His name. Peter was presented with this dilemma in John 6. After many of Jesus’ disciples turned away, Jesus asked Peter in v. 67, “Do you want to go away as well?” Peter responds, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” I interpret Peter as saying, “Lord, where else would I go? I have no option other than following you.” Peter’s reply is worth reflection.
The Christian life entails great trouble and trial. As the apostles said, “Through many tribulations, we must enter the kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22). In this life, God tests our faith (1 Pet 1:7). When troubling circumstances arise, quitting is not an option. God himself will complete the work He has begun in us (see Phil 1:6). Provided the Lord’s grip on our lives, we are left with one option: pursue Christ come hell or high water.
If your back is against the wall, follow Christ through the difficulty. What other option do you have? There are none. When the going gets tough, which it will, our resolve must rise to the level where we say to our flesh, to the devil, and to the world, “Bring it on. I’m following Christ no matter what. I have no other option.” It is better to live a difficult life for Christ having no regrets, than to live an easy one without Him having many regrets.
Pastor Chance
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