Beyond Cowards of Reality: The Role of Faith in Overcoming Adversity
Often, the notion that Christians are cowards of reality because they leave everything to God is met with strong resistance. The idea is flawed, and here’s why.
Contrary to the Myth: Faith as Strength
Far from being a crutch or a way to avoid responsibility, faith in God/Jesus can be a profound source of strength. My atheist friend once suggested that my faith was nothing more than a crutch. She argued that living without God is like living in the dark, refusing to turn on the light. However, this view overlooks the transformative power of faith in providing clarity and purpose. When faced with opposition, bad odds, and the inevitable challenges of being human, faith offers a steadfast foundation that allows us to persevere.
Case in Point: William Wilberforce
Historical figures like William Wilberforce, who successfully campaigned to abolish the slave trade in the British parliament, serve as powerful examples of how faith can be a driving force for change. Wilberforce did not leave the abolition of the slave trade to God alone; he dedicated decades of his life to the cause. This fervent commitment is a testament to the fact that faith can inspire action, not paralysis. When we see Christians as cowards, it’s often an oversimplification that fails to recognize the nuanced roles faith plays in our lives.
Understanding Cowardice
The question of whether Christians are cowards is a valid one when we consider the concept of cowardice. Cowardice, in many definitions, is characterized by an unwillingness to face up to challenges and responsibilities. However, if we define unwavering loyalty to the Holy Spirit as a strength, then Christians are not being cowardly at all. Instead, they are choosing to align their actions with a higher moral and ethical standard. This alignment with divine causality is not an avoidance of reality, but a deep engagement with it from a different perspective.
Divine Causality vs. Human Causality
The “reality” we often associate with causal pathways is based on our human understanding and experiences. However, only the Holy Spirit can provide a broader and more comprehensive perspective on this reality. Faith in God is not about ignoring human causality, but about integrating a divine perspective that transcends our limitations. This integration allows Christians to face challenges with a deeper sense of purpose and direction.
Evolutionary Intelligence vs. Divine Wisdom
While it’s true that some might argue that our uncowardly evolutionary ape-like intelligence is more reliable, it must be acknowledged that this intelligence has its limitations. Faith in God offers a different form of wisdom, one that guides us beyond our evolutionary instincts. This wisdom is not a crutch, but a tool that helps us navigate the complexities of life with greater resilience and purpose.
Ultimately, whether we are cowards of reality or not is a highly subjective question. What’s clear is that faith in God can be a powerful force for positive change, not a sign of cowardice. It is through this faith that we find the strength to face challenges, to make moral decisions, and to work towards a better future.