Preparing Your Minds for Action
Image: Thierry Meier
Words by Joseph McCroskey
Do you remember your first (or your worst) hold-down? Did you question whether or not surfing was worth the punishment? Some don’t think it is and they give up. You and I know that beatings go with the territory but also that they are worth going through for all of the enjoyment we get out of riding waves and the stories we get to tell.
The most dedicated surfers train extensively in preparation for extended and multiple hold-downs. Some have paid the ultimate price. All of us should wisely assess the risks and prepare accordingly.
Following Christ is also risky and requires mental preparation: “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”[2] This may mean the loss of a relationship or a job. We might get ridiculed or insulted. Some are victims of violence even to the point of martyrdom. We need to prepare ourselves in advance so that we are ready to victoriously endure whatever comes our way, including trials and tribulations.
Jesus spoke about people who aren’t willing to take these risks: “And they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away.”[3] How do we put down roots so we can endure? What can we do to be ready to suffer for the cause of Christ, whatever that might look like?
We know that when we’re underwater we must relax and assure ourselves that we will be okay. Panicking is absolutely not an option. The daily practice of trusting God in every circumstance and letting the peace of Christ rule in our hearts[4] is excellent preparation for facing difficulties as well as the mistreatment we will eventually face for our faith.
We need to be convinced that the benefits far outweigh the liabilities. As we “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,”[5] we become assured that “it will be worth it all.” Let’s accept the fact that following Him won’t be easy[6] but far more worthwhile than all of our best surf sessions combined!
Let’s memorize Bible verses such as the ones in this devotional.
Let’s pray daily for our fellow believers who are currently experiencing severe persecution. “Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body.”[7]
We’re willing to get pounded by waves; let’s be even more willing and ready to get pounded for our faith, however that might play out. Just imagine the stories we will get to tell forever!
“Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 1st Peter 1:13
2nd Timothy 3:12
Mark 4:17
Colossians 3:15
2nd Peter 3:18
“...through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” Acts 14:22b
Hebrews 13:3. The Voice of the Martyrs has a useful free app called Pray Today.
All Scripture quotations from the English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.