Devotional
Have you ever tried swimming against a strong current? Your muscles burn, your lungs ache, and every stroke feels like a battle. This is the reality of following Christ in a world that flows in the opposite direction. As believers, we’re called to live differently. While the world chases after temporary pleasures, we pursue eternal values. While others compromise their integrity for personal gain, we choose righteousness. While society promotes self-centeredness, we’re called to love sacrificially. This upstream journey isn’t easy, but it’s the path Christ has set before us. The challenge isn’t that we’re doing something wrong when life feels difficult—it’s that we’re doing something right. When we choose to follow Jesus, we’re choosing to go against the grain of a fallen world. We’re swimming upstream against systems that oppose God’s truth and ways that lead away from His heart. But here’s the encouragement: we’re not swimming alone. Christ has gone before us, and His Spirit empowers us for the journey. Every stroke upstream is a declaration that we belong to a different kingdom, that our citizenship is in heaven, and that our values are anchored in eternity rather than the temporary currents of this world. The upstream journey is hard, but it’s also purposeful. Each day we choose to follow Christ despite the resistance, we’re being shaped into His likeness and preparing for our eternal home where the current will finally carry us forward.
Bible Verse
‘Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.’ – Hebrews 12:1-2
Reflection Question
What specific areas of your life feel like you’re swimming upstream against worldly values, and how can you find strength to persevere in those areas?
Quote
“Life’s harder for the true believer, the true committed follower of Christ, because the reality is we’re swimming upstream. We’re going against the systems of the world, and we’re going against the mindset of the world and we’re going against the ways of the world.”
Prayer
Lord, help me to embrace the upstream journey of following You. When the current feels strong and I’m tempted to go with the flow of this world, remind me that You’ve called me to something greater. Give me strength for each stroke and joy in knowing I’m swimming toward You. Amen.