Is It Hard to be a Christian?

Jesus once said, “… I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10). These words of Christ demonstrate to us the kind of life He wants for us. Because Christ is with us, we can have an abundant life.

While I was playing in a softball tournament, I overheard a couple of my teammates talking about salvation. One of them had just gave his life to the Lord. It was an awesome moment to hear him explain how he was done with his old life and ready to start his walk with God. The other guy listening was very receptive to him, but he said something interesting that I did not catch until later. He said, “Dude I’m so proud of you, but just remember that the devil knows what you did. He’s ready to start attacking you, just be prepared.” As I thought more about this, I began to realize how we can make the Christian life seem harder than the unsaved life. Many times we look for a devil in every rock instead of seeing the power of the Cross.

In the Christian circle there is this idea that floats around. It says, “Be aware, when you become a Christian it’s going to get hard. It’s going to get rough. It’s hard to be a Christian.” I say, “compared to what?” Life is already hard. Jesus tells us, “…My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:30).

Let’s keep in mind the blessings we have as believers. We are given “peace that passes all understanding” (Phil. 4:7). We have a savior who provides for, “all of our needs” (Phil 4:19). And we have a God who will never leave us nor forsake us (Heb. 13:5).

Too many times we want to live the other person’s life. Christ makes it clear what kind of life He wants for you. God wants you to have life and have it more abundantly. Yes, life in general is hard, but to me it is the life without Christ that is the hard life.