But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved. (Heb. 10:39)
Expanded Passage: Hebrews 10:19-39
Accepting Jesus Christ is not seen as an individual decision in some families. This is especially true in cultures where decisions tend to be made by the community rather than by individuals. Deciding to follow Jesus can be seen as being disrespectful to one’s non-Christian parents and as a rejection of one’s heritage, culture, and ethnic background.
Being American-born Chinese, I was not introduced to Jesus Christ until I was eighteen years old. My high school friends, Andy and Nancy, told me about him. When I first told my mother that I had accepted Jesus as my Savior, she received the news nonchalantly. I have a feeling she did not take the news seriously, thinking it was just a fad which I would likely soon forget. After a few months, however, she apparently began to realize that I was serious, and I could sense the pressure from her to renounce my new-found faith.
I would not be telling the truth if I told you that I never considered turning away from Christ. There were times when I seriously considered “shrinking back.” Feeling rejected by my mother for over thirty-five years was painful for me. Yes, I loved my mom, but I realized that I needed to love Jesus more. Following Jesus has not always been an easy path to travel on, but I will never shrink back from following God!
Continue following Jesus, no matter what obstacles you face.
Jim “Umfundisi” Lo is a retired professor from Indiana Wesleyan University, cross-cultural leader, intercessor, and author of several books published by Wesleyan Publishing House.
© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
