"Reckless abandon" might best describe the life of C.T. Studd, who was a well-known British cricket player in the late 1800's. But it wasn't sports that gave him that reputation. It was his service to Christ in the perilous frontiers of China, India, and Africa.
Nothing dampened Studd's evangelistic fervor—not illness, separation from family, or cannibalistic tribes. And he was as outspoken as he was courageous.
Yet there was a tenderness to his fervor. When he'd made up his mind to go to China and his mother opposed his decision, he showed respect for her and God's 5th commandment. (See Underestimated Command.)
He didn't back down; but he was respectful, compassionate, and perseverant, writing many loving letters to his mother until she accepted his decision.
It is a rare quality to find such respect for God's command to honor parents, especially in someone so bold and independent. But it is no less important to God than passionate evangelism.
If you feel like your parents don't understand your faith, resist the temptation to become self-righteous. Instead, take a cue from Studd and humbly persevere in love and respect (Philippians 2:3-4). Whether they come around or not, you'll be pleasing the Lord (Ephesians 6:2; Proverbs 16:20).
Source: C.T. Studd, No Retreat, Janet and Goeff Benge
This one hit home! When I first sought the true faith, I was going to a Bible teaching church. My mother, not a believer, accepted what I was doing but said, "Okay, just be some kind of fanatic." I answered, "Oh, of course not." That response blunted my search and it took twenty years before I accepted the Lord as my savior. And, I'm a fanatic, like all Christians should be.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing, Rick.
DeleteAnd you're right....all Christians should be fanantics for he Lord.
Was your comment that it "hit home" an intentional play on words? 😅😅 Loved your comments on how we should all be fanatics! Amen
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