The Battle Against Apathy

Isn’t it funny how one of the biggest battles we find within our hearts is the war against apathy? I mean, why do we let apathy remain so persistent in the battle? Why do we fight so hard to prevent apathy from dying? Rather ironic, isn’t it?

Apathy is definitely not apathetic in its nature. In truth, my own heart finds it quite the opposite. The roots of apathy dig down deep and will not let go. Spreading like a loathsome disease, this persistent weed winds its tough strands of poison around every facet of my heart and life. I am almost persuaded to give up the fight. Or just switch sides—I could just fight for apathy to win instead. Surely life would be easier then. A short battle would ensue, apathy would triumph, and the struggle would be over. Life would be in a lull. How tempting it would be to shout to Apathy, “You win!” so that I could sit back and dismiss the battle.

But, no. That would not be right. These thoughts are ridiculous. A Christian’s calling is to pursue righteousness with passion and perseverance. Letting apathy reign in our hearts is a sin. In this battle of my heart, it will not do to let apathy have the upper hand.

But where is the encouragement to continue the fight? I am weak, and my strength to fight for passion is failing. Where shall I look for help? May I never forget the exhortation found in Hebrews 12.

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. (vs. 1-3)

Though the battle against apathy rages in a complex manner that I don’t understand, I will not give up. Christ fought the battle even more intensely than I am fighting, and yet He overcame. By His strength only, will I do the same. The sin of apathy, so easily besetting me, must be laid aside, no matter the cost. Apathy is not option!