Recently, I have run into many Christians who have expressed a feeling of being tired and just wanting a break — a break from what I don’t know but it typically is in reference to either service in the church, or to Christianity all-together. I have known many who have just stepped away from the church (perhaps in their minds it began as a momentary step, but has now become a long-term sitting).[1]
If you look at Daniel 3, we see how Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were rewarded for not bowing down to a false idol. They were resistant to fitting into the mold of the world, and stood for what they felt was right.
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2 ESV)
We would point all believers to their example of not doing something they knew was wrong. In the church world there are many things that we could point to as “sins” or things that believers or people shouldn’t do because of the damage it causes (either to themselves, others, families, etc.).
But for far too many people, their walk with Christ ends there. As though simply avoiding evil and not “sinning” is the purpose of our lives.
Daniel 3 must also be taken into account with Daniel 6. Daniel faces the lion’s den because he continued to do something that he felt was the right thing to do. No where in Scripture is one commanded to pray three times a day or to face any particular city (i.e. Jerusalem). Daniel could have simply stopped praying and worshipping God for thirty days. But he chose to continue to do so even though it potentially would cost him his life.
Scripture encourages us to have this balance in our lives. Avoid doing what is evil, and do what is good. Should we go to church (yes), should we avoid gossiping while we are there (yes too.) Should we steal (no), should we give to the poor (yes)? We have to avoid evil, while still continuing to do good. Stopping is not an option that is given to us in Scripture.
“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.” (Philippians 3:12 ESV)
Let me encourage you to keep going, don’t grow weary of doing good, and continually repent of your sin. God is sovereign and will take us home to be with Him one day, but until then, let us press on doing good in His name.
[1] see Psalm 1:1-2
