The agony of Hamlet’s heart was expressed in the familiar words, “To be or not to be, that is the question.” The options are expressed in these lines: “Thus conscience does make cowards of us all,” and “Is it not perfect conscience to quit [kill] the king?”

Those who have read or seen the play—and I believe every Christian student should read it—know that young Hamlet finally does avenge his father’s death, and that he (and just about everyone else) dies in the process.

Okay, Shakespeare lesson done for today. But underneath all of this is an important issue to discuss. I am convinced that every believer in Jesus Christ will be faced with a similar crisis of conscience and courage. Somehow, somewhere, your faith will be confronted in a direct and threatening way. When that time comes, the question is this: Will you have the courage to act out of conviction and stand up for Jesus Christ? Or will you slink away in fear and shame? Will you speak out to that group of buddies, or boss, or special friend, and say, “I am a follower of Jesus Christ, and I don’t do those things”? Or will you remain quiet?

Paul’s admonition to Timothy is an admonition to us as well: “Do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord” (2 Timothy 1:8). To speak out for Him, letting the chips fall where they may, is to have the courage to be what you confess you are. —DE

REFLECTION

• When I’m challenged to assert my faith, do I usually respond with boldness and courage? In what kinds of situations am I hesitant? 
• Have I learned to become successful at avoiding situations where I might be pressed for a witness? Am I afraid or embarrassed to identify with Christ openly? 
• I have survived such a defining moment, and I will write about it below.