Defense might win championships in sports, but I doubt it’s the best strategy for life. Constant worry about defending your territory, your resources, your heart, your schedule — it can’t help but take a toll on you and your relationships!

Every day you see folks walking down the street who seem perfectly normal, in good health, well-dressed. But how many of them overflow with insecurities and fears? They can’t move ahead in life because they’re too busy retreating. They deal with security issues, self-protection, and attempts to find safety through control of their possessions. This defensive posture leads to fear, tension, and alienation from others.

On the other end of the spectrum are brave people such as Cassie Bernall. Cassie was the Columbine High School student who affirmed her faith in God right before a bullet took her life. Yes, following Jesus can have its tough moments. No, Christians aren’t shielded from certain troubles. The Christian life isn’t a picnic. But courageously following Christ is always the best way to go. In Deuteronomy we read this assurance: “The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.”

I wonder — are you stuck in the desert? Or are you forging ahead into the Promised Land? Moving forward by trusting in Christ is the only way to live, and it will change your world.

This is Luis Palau.