There’s no comfy cross.
I love the definition of faith in Hebrews 11:1–2 and the incredible examples of faith in action throughout the chapter:
‘Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. Through their faith, the people in days of old earned a good reputation. ‘
Hebrews 11:1-2
Every example throughout this chapter shares a common thread: none of these people lived a comfy, soft life. Our actions demonstrate our faith, most often during stressful or traumatic experiences. While we are blessed to live in a country where we aren’t stoned or sawn in half for our beliefs, we are still called to pick up a cross. Our Redeemer wants to transform and shape us, which means we must die to ourselves daily.
Let’s be honest: this is a painful process. On many days, I would much rather watch TV, scroll social media, or relax in my comfort zone than go to church or engage in spiritual training. If you wrestle with these same desires, know that you are not alone. We all struggle to choose growth over comfort. Thankfully, God’s grace meets us exactly where we are, providing the strength to take the next step. Every effort to trust Him—no matter how small—matters and builds our faith.
Truly walking the walk as a disciplined Ambassador for Christ requires real work. I must make my relationship with God a daily priority, reminding myself every morning that my full-time job is to make Christ look great. As I search for my Heavenly Homeland, I cannot reach it without the discomfiting cross. We can’t earn a good reputation if we refuse to act. As Henry Ford famously said, “You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do.”
If you want to build your faith in simple, everyday ways, it’s time to get uncomfortable. Try something new at your church, like leading a Bible study or a prayer group. Replace your morning scrolling time by setting aside a few minutes to pray, read scripture, and journal using the SOAP method. Even memorizing a single verse each week or sharing what you learn with a friend will keep you focused and help you live out an active, actionable faith.
