Hope and comfort – 9 October 2006
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds,
because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
James 1: 2-3 [NIV]
Which is more appealing, a life of comfort or a life of distress? Life in Britain in the 21st century is comfortable by contrast to other countries and other times. Is comfort a good thing? – does it not breed complacency and weakness?
The persecuted church (in Iran or China for example) is a strong church and living in distressing times increases faith and encourages growth and action. By contrast, in the UK the church is not seriously persecuted – it is at worst ridiculed or parodied, ignored or stereotyped. If the church is silent on key issues affecting our lives and our nation’s moral and spiritual welfare, then no offence will be caused and no debate will ensue.
I wonder if now is the time for the church to come out of the comfortable environment we are in (our so-called Comfort Zone) and speak the truth to our nation. Not merely for the sake of being contrary or seeking to be judgmental – but rather that the world may hear God speak through His Word and the voice of His People.
A complacent and toothless church is not going to be a priority target for Satan, and comfortable or not we must follow the will of God and the example of Jesus – being ready to take up our cross and walk the uncomfortable path that ensues.
Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Saviour, and my hope is in you all day long.
Remember, O LORD, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old.
Psalm 25: 4-6 [NIV]
Amen. | 