In 1831, after preparing to become a minister at Christ College in Cambridge, England, a young man set sail on the Beagle—a ship filled with naturalists invited to explore and study the world for five years.
During his time aboard, new ideas challenged this young man’s beliefs. He was living in the Age of Enlightenment, and its influence captivated him. Over the years, the man’s focus shifted as he began fully embracing the role, thoughts, and manner of a naturalist.
It wasn’t long before a concerned friend noticed the change and wrote to him, expressing worries about the young man’s faith. He responded, “I’m sorry to inform you: I don’t believe in the Bible as divine revelation anymore. Therefore, I don’t believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God.”
This man, Charles Darwin, later became the father of evolutionary thought and led many away from the faith he had once cherished.
Oh, how easily our hearts can drift! Hebrews 2:1 warns us: “We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.” The Greek word for drift, pararrhueo, means “to carelessly drift off course.” Drifting doesn’t happen suddenly; it’s a gradual process, occurring when we allow other sources to take the place only God should have in our hearts.
Darwin clearly allowed two sources to overshadow God’s influence in His life: culture and companions. Culture constantly clamors for our attention, but Romans 12:2 reminds us: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.…” Regarding relationships, 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns, “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’”
Instead of relying on culture and the wrong companions, Hebrews 3 provides a roadmap for trusting God. First, we must fix our thoughts on Jesus. Hebrews 3:1-2 encourages us: “Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest. He was faithful to the one who appointed him . . .”
Next, we should welcome the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. Hebrews 3:7-8 says, “So, as the Holy Spirit says: ‘Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts…’” Finally, we must stay connected to a godly community. Verses 12-13 remind us, “See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily . . .”
Friend, God knows far more about our lives than we do. To live the incredible life He has for us, we must trust Him above all else as we move confidently into His purposes. Psalm 37:3 instructs, “Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.”
God’s way is always the best way. Trust Him and watch with gratitude, as He leads you into a life better than you could imagine!
