WHAT REAL FAITH IS

WHAT REAL FAITH IS 

Polycarp’s final words remind us that long obedience is not a burden but a joy-filled testimony. “Eighty and six years have I served Christ, nor has He ever done me any harm…” That sentence alone silences our complaints and recalibrates our perspective.

When trials come, do we view them through the lens of God’s faithfulness? Or do we subtly accuse Him of neglect when life turns dark? Polycarp didn’t flinch. He had spent a lifetime walking with Christ, so when the flames of martyrdom came, he stood firm in the heat of faith, not fear.

His faith wasn’t forged in a single moment of courage but through decades of consistent, quiet trust. His endurance wasn’t found in his strength but in the dependable goodness of his King. We often fear suffering because we forget how trustworthy our Saviour is.

The real test of our theology comes when it costs us something. Will we bless God when our obedience invites pain? Or will we reframe the gospel to serve our comfort?

Enjoy the full quote: 

"Eighty and six years have I served Christ, nor has He ever done me any harm. How, then, could I blaspheme my King who saved Me? I bless Thee for deigning me worthy of this day and this hour that I may be among Thy martyrs and drink the cup of my Lord Jesus Christ." – Polycarp

Reflection Question:

In what current challenge are you tempted to question God's goodness rather than remember His long history of faithfulness?