So Thomas, called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”  — John 11:16

Imagine Thomas standing with the Disciples. They had just received news that Lazarus was sick and dying. In the middle of this tragedy and the potential danger of returning to the region of Judea, Thomas speaks up. He looks at his friends and says something unexpected, revealing the depth of his commitment.

"Let us also go, that we may die with him."

So, let's pause and try to understand what Thomas meant by these words. Initially, we might think that Thomas was referring to Lazarus, as the pronoun "him" seems to indicate. But if we dig deeper into the original language and context, we'll discover that Thomas was referring to Jesus. So, Thomas's statement would read something like this: "Let us also go, that we may die with [Jesus]." In other words, he is suggesting that they should all return to Judea and be with Lazarus, even though this will put them all in harm's way.

At that moment, the man we know as the "The Doubter" demonstrates this unwavering conviction. He showed remarkable conviction and was willing to lay down his life for him.

However, it's crucial to understand that there's a vast difference between merely talking about our conviction and commitment to Jesus and living it out. We've all encountered disciples who can talk a big game but fall short of action. They may declare their faith yet stumble when faced with any adversity.

This moment teaches us an important lesson about the difference between talkers and walkers. The distinguishing factor lies in the level of adversity a man is willing to endure. In the coming chapters of John, the intensity is going to rise. The heat is turned up, and the pressure to renounce convictions about Jesus will increase. Thomas, along with all the other disciples, will face the daunting and real proposition of death. And as we know, they will all run from adversity.

Here's the reality: It's effortless to speak of commitment to Jesus when life is smooth sailing. However, when the cultural currents rage, and the cost of discipleship becomes tangible, jeopardizing friendships, finances, and even family ties, that's when our convictions face the ultimate test. Will we be mere talkers, or will we exemplify our convictions through action? Are we content with superficial words, or do we truly live out our beliefs?

Remember, qualities like courage, conviction, and commitment are not catchy words confined to quotes we hang on our walls. They are forged in the crucible of choices and actions, especially in adversity. S be a talker, but also be a walker and put some action behind what you proclaim.

ASK THIS:

1. In what areas of your life do you find it easier to talk about your convictions than to live them out through action? How can you bridge the gap between talk and action in those areas?
2. Reflect on a time when you faced adversity or a challenging situation that tested your convictions. How did you respond? What did you learn from that experience, and how can it shape your future choices and actions?

DO THIS: Be a talker and walker.

PRAY THIS: God, give me the strength and courage to not only speak boldly of my faith but to live it out daily with unwavering commitment, even in the face of adversity. Guide me to be a true walker, exemplifying my convictions through actions that honor You.

PLAY THIS: Give Me Faith.