Following God Even When No-one Else Is

Recently there was a story about a young man who ripped up his pre-written commencement speech and instead, recited the Lord's prayer in front of the student body, relatives, friends, and faculty at  Liberty High School in Pickens County, South Carolina.

After a huge show of support for his decision, Roy Costner IV is quoted as saying , “Don’t let the few hold you back. Stand up for what you believe in. We have freedom of speech for a reason.”

Sometimes it isn't easy to stand up for our beliefs...to follow God when it seems as if no-one else is.  More and more our faith is being challenged and tested, yet we are called to stand firm and live it out loud for others to see; to be the salt and light in a dark world.

There's a story in the Bible that reminds me of the challenging times we are living in.  Elijah was a prophet who was well known for his outlandish antics, but more importantly, his close walk with God. 

At a point when he was at his lowest - physically exhausted and mentally anguished, Queen Jezebel placed a bounty on his head.  By way of escape, Elijah ran into the desert until he reached Mt. Horeb.  Taking refuge in a cave, the Lord said to him, "What are you doing here, Elijah?"

He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty.  The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too." (emphasis added)

It was then that God displayed His power and holiness to Elijah on the mount through a powerful wind, earthquake, fire and then a still, small voice.  "Go back the way you came (Elijah)...Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel - all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him."

In a nutshell, God was telling the old prophet, "Look, you're not the only one.  I have seven thousand others who are also seeking me and living out their faith."

What a smack of reality!  Sometimes we also need a bold reminder.  Whether it's in our place of employment, in our community, or even in our own home, the fact of the matter is it's not always easy to take a stand for God.  We may get the feeling we are the only one trying to live out our faith. Yet, God says..."You're not alone.  I've reserved a number of other folks who are walking the same journey you are, so keep on plugging.  I won't leave you nor forsake you.  I will lift you up and hold you with my righteous right hand."

We are living in a time when our light needs to shine brightly and boldly.  Today is the day we need to stand up, speak up and live it out loud even when it feels like no-one else is.  So what are you waiting for?  How is your faith being challenged today?  Just be aware, this is your moment to shine for God and follow Him in hopes that others may see.

Blessings,
Kristi