What should distinguish us from those who do not believe is our way of life. Abraham’s lifestyle was radically different from that of the people around him in his time, just as the lifestyle of early Christians was so distinct that they were called “Christians.” By accepting God’s calling to be a believer, Abraham devoted his entire life to God’s project. And precisely because of that, he became the father of faith—for his life became the model for those who genuinely believe. Therefore, if our lives are not wholly spent for this faith, it means we have not yet truly believed. Whose pattern are we really following?
When the Bible says that a person is “justified by faith,” and this is interpreted as making salvation easy, that understanding is mistaken. In fact, that statement makes the path to salvation even more demanding, because salvation means being restored to God’s original design. By receiving a special calling from God, Abraham had to pay for that calling with his entire life. His life was full of risk. But honestly, is there any life without risk? Every life carries risk. The question now is: which risk do we choose to bear?
Let us think about it. The people of Ur of the Chaldeans who did not follow Abraham’s example also faced risks. The same is true of human life today. Whether one chooses to follow the call of Jesus Christ or not, both paths involve risk. Therefore, it is foolish not to go all out for God. If we choose God, we must not choose the world, not at all. When we choose God, our studies, business, career, and everything we do must become means to support our pursuit of knowing God cognitively, understanding His will, and doing His will. In the end, we will serve Him with our whole lives, without limit. That is the true meaning of choosing God—but sadly, such a life is exceedingly rare.
Before it is too late, we must realize that life itself is inherently risky. Whether we choose to be a true Christian or not, both carry risk. So why not choose God, along with all the risks that come with it? If a person has truly encountered the awesome reality of God, they will naturally cease to chase worldly desires—or at least, find it easier to let them go. The Father created the vast universe. He has made us His children—so what more could we possibly seek? The majesty of God is beyond measure. Therefore, if we are to follow Him, let us do so wholeheartedly; if not, it would be better not to follow at all.
So why not make the choice—and have the courage—to take the risk of living in true faith in Jesus Christ? We now stand before the Lord Jesus, who calls us, “Follow Me!” Will we be like Abraham, who obeyed His call? We have made many mistakes. All this time, we have merely been religious; at best, we have become good people. But if we are only good people, many non-Christians are also good—some even better. Our goal is not merely to be good people, but to partake in the divine nature. Therefore, we must follow the Lord completely, whatever the cost.
Romans 8:17–18 says:
“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings so that we may also share in His glory. I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”
Thus, no matter how significant the risks of a believer’s life may be, they are nothing compared to the glory that awaits when life’s journey is complete. Whatever our problems, do not be overwhelmed; however evil our enemies, do not harbor hatred. Let us change and realign our lives, for many among us will God use one day as His chosen people in the Kingdom of Heaven.