The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion. – Proverbs 28:1 (NIV)
It isn’t difficult to determine which people in our lives have built themselves on the foundation of truth,righteousness, and Christ’s teaching. You’ll see them running toward adversity, responding to crisis, and wedging themselves into the middle of an injustice.
The heart of Christ, once deeply rooted in us, compels us to waive off fears and prompts us to action in the midst of challenges. The wicked, however, rarely show up and rarely stick around for the tough work. They become easier to spot as our hearts turn more toward God.
Too often we limit our definition of wickedness with an association with goblins, ghosts, witchery, dark arts and the sort. But what about those who observe injustice right in front of them – and turn away to chase their own desires? What about the man who constantly looks over his shoulder to see if others are watching his devious or inappropriate behavior? What about that person, child, or family who is trapped in the grip of darkness – and we turn to look the other way? What, then, is the definition of wicked?
Let’s not get trapped in living against the grain of Christ and turning away from the dark areas. Jesus Christ rushed into a darkened world to bring light – he took the hit for us.
Let’s consider our compulsions. Stop preparing escape routes and stand firm in the gap. Take the hit for someone who couldn’t survive it without us. Like it or not, Living Bold requires guts and tenacity. Living Bold for Christ requires that we overcome our own fear and rush to the aid of those suffering and struggling.
Today, infuse your life with the righteousness of Christ and be known as the one who doesn’t flee. Give up the running and fleeing… and trade that for staying in place – standing up for injustice, and holding the line to represent Christ to the same end that He represented you.
THE RIGHT NEXT STEP
Write down 1 injustice that has been bothering you for quite some time. Place that in your pocket and carry it until you stand in the gap and act. Then throw it away.
PRAY: God, give me the heart of a lion! I want to be bold in my faith and attack life with Christ deep in my heart. Change my heart to beat more like Yours. Give me the courage to speak up and stand out in a crowd for Your name. Amen.
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