In our series of articles, we are focused on basic principles that are needed to ensure the success of fellow Christians. Hopefully, we have made it clear that we need to emphasize the basics of the Christian life so that they have a better chance at success. We have emphasized that for the new Christian a drastic change has taken place. This change is so different from the life they are accustomed to living that it takes a while to adapt to this new life. In our previous article, we talked about the race set before us and how to win the prize.

Today, we need to be reminded just how difficult this new life can be. The Christian life is a battlefield that results in many who begin but not many that finish. Most mature and faithful Christians have reached a place in their faith where the battles do not rage as long or with such ferocity. But for the new or immature Christian, it is still a struggle for survival.

The Christian life is a war (Rom. 7:21-25; Eph. 6:10-13) complete with an enemy and battle armor to wear. In this war, there are many kinds of hardships and there are many kinds of sufferings to endure. Amid the battle, it is natural for us to experience great fear and discouragement. The problem is not feeling afraid and discouraged. Jesus never reprimanded anyone for being afraid. No, the problem is when we are swallowed up in a flood of emotions and eventually give up. Many will become discouraged and “grow weary” of doing what is right (Gal. 6:9); eventually giving up and turning back to their old life.

Why do so many turn away? Some will turn away intentionally; while others will drift away slowly because of their own neglect or our neglect to love and support them (John 12:42-43; Gal. 6:9; Heb. 2:1-3). Still, others just seem to forget that they were purged from their old life and sins (Luke 8:5-8; 2 Peter 1:5-11; 2:22).

Many are called but few are chosen (Matt. 22:14). Many begin but not all endure to the end (Rev. 2:10). This is a tragedy that is greater than words can describe. I am telling you this because we need to be warned that if we don’t help teach them, root them in Jesus, and His word; they stand a far greater chance of falling away. You can make a difference in their life and eternity.

Could you really stand before Jesus on judgment day and say they didn’t matter enough? Do you really believe that Jesus will be ok with you refusing to help them?

If you are a Christian disciple, then don’t let anything come between you and your Lord. Don’t let anything make you weary, drift away, or quit running the race (Heb. 12:1-2). And just as important! Don’t forget about your brother or sister in Christ. They need you desperately. Without your support and encouragement; without your help, they might be one of the many who falls away. Lastly, don’t forget that your victory could be tainted by their failure (Matt. 25:41-46), which could result in your subsequent failure.

Jeff Arnette

CHCOC