In this declining world of people who strive to be politically correct, it’s good to look back and see examples of ordinary folk who, even when afraid, did not follow the crowd but stood alone and impacted nations.
Think of Noah being called by God to build an ark. Can you imagine Noah’s confusion? No one had seen rain. Water came up from springs in the earth. And an ark? The Lord provided the blueprint. The crowd probably hurled ridicule and abuse over the next 120 years it took for Noah to build that boat. The animals came two by two and entered the ark, and Noah and his family with them. God closed the door and kept them safe inside while the rain came. What happened to those who followed the crowd? They all died.
Moses committed murder, ran for his life and hid out in the desert for forty years. From an adopted prince of Egypt to a shepherd, quite a fall before God chose him to be the one to deliver His people from slavery. Moses doubted his ability, but God made him into the man to do the job.
Twelve spies scouted the Promised Land. The said, “No way!” Caleb and Joshua said, “Let’s go!” The crowd wanted to stone them. God intervened. Only two men from that generation set foot in Canaan: Joshua and Caleb. Those who doubted God’s promise died in the desert. In the Promised Land, Joshua saw the hearts of the people turning away, and declared, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
Daniel was a teenager when he showed his God-focused character. He held onto his principles, practiced his faith, was willing to die rather than bend his knee to an idol. He served four kings and kingdoms, impacted countless lives and thrived.
Esther’s beauty was a gift from God that caught the attention of a vain and foolish king. Evil men manipulated him like puppet masters, intent on destroying all Jews everywhere. She put her life on the line and told the king the truth about what was happening in his kingdom. God used her to save His people.
The Apostle Paul was flogged, beaten, ship-wrecked, persecuted, and suffered every kind of hardship. Nothing stopped him from preaching and praising Jesus. Emperor Nero had him beheaded, but Paul’s letters continue to proclaim the Gospel today.
There have been hundreds of people through the ages who have stood alone and been a light in the darkness. In every generation, God calls men and women to speak the Word of God. He calls ordinary people like you and me to spread an extraordinary message: Jesus atoned for our sins and offers new and eternal life through faith in Him. When God presents an opportunity, don’t fear the crowd. Stand firm in faith, even if you are alone, even if you are afraid, and testify to the Truth. God knows the world needs to hear it.