Adrian Rogers: Having Faith to Trust God During Hard Times in Life

Adrian Rogers: Having Faith to Trust God During Hard Times in Life.

It takes courage, my friend, to stand alone. In today’s world, it is increasingly necessary to learn how to do so. Whether at work, school, on your team, or in your neighborhood, the pressures to conform grow stronger. As darkness deepens around us, standing firm becomes even more vital—not just for us, but for our children as well. This call for courage extends beyond personal stubbornness or pride; it’s about standing for what’s right and true, grounded in the eternal principles of God’s Word.

Take, for example, the story of Athanasius, an early Christian who faced intense opposition. The Roman Emperor Theodosius once confronted him, saying, “Athanasius, the whole world is against you.” Athanasius boldly replied, “Then Athanasius is against the world.” His unwavering faith reminds us that standing alone for Christ’s truth often requires boldness and resolve.

The Bible provides another powerful example in the third chapter of Daniel. King Nebuchadnezzar, driven by pride and a desire for total control, erected a massive golden statue and commanded everyone in the land to bow and worship. Those who refused would face the fiery furnace. Despite this dire threat, three young Hebrews—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—stood firm. They refused to worship the image, defying the king’s orders and demonstrating their steadfast commitment to God.

Their courage didn’t come from arrogance or narrow-mindedness, but from a deep, unwavering faith in God’s promises. Their decision not to bow, budge, or burn serves as a timeless reminder that God’s presence can sustain us through the fiercest trials. When they emerged unharmed from the flames, their story became more than a tale of deliverance; it became a testament to God’s ongoing faithfulness.

Today, we face similar challenges. While the fiery furnaces may not be literal, the societal pressures, cultural demands, and personal trials are real. Like the Hebrews, we must learn to stand firm in our faith, rooted in the eternal truth of God’s Word. We must also teach our children to do the same—not out of defiance or stubbornness, but out of a commitment to what is good, right, and everlasting.

In these difficult times, standing alone may feel isolating, but remember: you are never truly alone. God is with you, guiding and strengthening you. Just as He delivered Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, He will be faithful to those who stand for Him. So be courageous. Stand firm in your convictions, and trust that God’s truth will prevail.