Why discard your confidence?

I. Understanding “Confidence” in Context

Confidence, in a biblical sense, refers to a deep-rooted assurance in the promises and character of the One who has called believers to faith. As Hebrews 10:35 says, “So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward,” this scriptural exhortation invites reflection on the foundation, value, and endurance of such trust. Rather than reflecting a temporary optimism, biblical confidence rests on the certainty of a God whose faithfulness has been demonstrated throughout history.

II. Scriptural Foundations of Confidence

The Scriptures consistently emphasize trust in the Creator. Psalm 27:3 conveys, “Though an army encamps around me, my heart will not fear; though war breaks out against me, I will keep my trust.” This verse shows that confidence in God transcends external crises.

Other passages, like Proverbs 3:5–6—“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight”—reinforce that reliance on human wisdom alone can waver, but reliance on divine wisdom stands firm. This principle underlines why confidence should be treasured, not discarded.

III. Reasons Some May Discard Their Confidence

1. External Pressures and Cultural Voices

Various cultural pressures can cause individuals to doubt spiritual truths. Sociological research has shown how group dynamics often undermine personal convictions. In biblical accounts, many succumbed to social rejection (John 12:42–43), where fear of exclusion prompted compromise.

2. Personal Suffering or Disappointment

Tragedies or prolonged difficulties can challenge one’s sense of divine care. Even Jeremiah wrestled with discouragement (Jeremiah 20:7–9). However, Scripture consistently illustrates that suffering is not wasted but can refine faith (1 Peter 1:6–7).

3. Philosophical Skepticism and Intellectual Doubts

Some people discard confidence in God when confronted with naturalistic explanations that claim complexity emerged without intelligent causation. However, an array of scientific proponents, including those examining DNA complexity, highlight that intricate biological systems point to a Designer. Archaeological findings, such as the intricate workmanship in ancient cultures, similarly emphasize purposeful creativity rather than random assembly of life and civilization.

4. Misunderstanding the Nature of Faith

Faith is frequently misconstrued as “blind belief.” Yet, biblical faith is backed by historical and manuscript evidence consistent with the entire narrative of Scripture. For instance, the Dead Sea Scrolls attest to the remarkable preservation of biblical texts across centuries. The New Testament’s manuscript tradition, supported by thousands of Greek manuscripts, underscores the reliability and consistency of the message carried down. Such evidence protects genuine faith from misconceptions of blind reliance.

IV. Consequences of Discarded Confidence

1. Loss of Spiritual Stability

Discarding confidence can lead to spiritual turmoil. James 1:6 states, “But he must ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.” Without confidence, there is no anchor in times of doubt.

2. Forfeiture of Hope and Purpose

When one releases trust in the Creator’s guidance, the sense of purpose erodes. Ephesians 2:10 highlights humanity’s calling: “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” Discarding confidence dampens motivation to fulfill that purpose.

3. Unnecessary Burden of Self-Reliance

When people abandon trust in a power beyond themselves, they face the crushing burden of self-reliance. Scripture affirms in 2 Corinthians 12:9 that “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Reliance on God, rather than solely on self, offers strength that human effort alone cannot sustain.

V. Encouragement to Retain Confidence

1. Access to the Throne of Grace

Hebrews 4:16 exhorts believers to “draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” This open invitation is anchored in the reality of divine willingness to respond.

2. Evidence of Resurrection and Historical Reliability

Accounts of the resurrection of Christ stand at the core of confidence. Eyewitness testimony in the Gospels (e.g., Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20–21) and the transformation of early disciples lend credibility to the claim that Christ physically rose from the dead. Early creeds and citations by first-century believers, such as 1 Corinthians 15:3–8, align with the historical veracity of the event.

3. Miraculous Confirmation and Modern Reports

Scripture records miraculous events—from parting seas (Exodus 14) to physical healings (Matthew 9)—as a testament to divine intervention. Present-day reports of healings and inexplicable recoveries, though evaluated on a case-by-case basis, echo the scriptural principle that God’s power remains active.

4. Archaeological and Geological Support

Archaeological discoveries (for instance, the Tel Dan Stele or the records in Ebla tablets) have corroborated biblical references to people, places, and customs. Some geological evidence that supports a relatively young earth—such as radiocarbon findings in diamonds or lack of erosion between sedimentary layers—continues to fuel debate but is seized upon by those who affirm an intelligently orchestrated universe within a younger timeline.

VI. Practical Ways to Uphold Confidence

1. Regular Engagement with Scripture

Reading and reflecting on the word strengthens trust. Romans 10:17 states, “So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.”

2. Gathering with Supportive Community

Acts 2:42–47 demonstrates that early communities sustained confidence by fellowshipping, studying, and praying together. Today, like-minded communities help reinforce faith amid challenges.

3. Prayer and Devotion

Prayer fosters reliance on God’s character. Philippians 4:6–7 encourages believers not to be anxious but to present requests to God, ensuring a peace that transcends understanding.

4. Reasoned Reflection on Evidence

Assessing the logical and historical foundations of one’s faith, including manuscript reliability and evidence for the resurrection, offers a bulwark against baseless doubt.

5. Sharing Personal Experiences

Confidence grows when believers recount personal transformations and answered prayers. Testimonies, both ancient and contemporary, serve as living examples of divine faithfulness.

VII. Conclusion

Confidence in the promises of the Almighty is not a delusion but a spiritually and historically anchored assurance. Discarding this confidence leads to needless loss of stability, purpose, and hope. Retaining it, on the other hand, opens the door to a life of profound assurance, deeper worship, and authentic transformation—realities revealed and substantiated by Scripture and corroborated by history, reason, and personal experience.

“Why discard your confidence?” The greater question, given the compelling evidence of divine faithfulness, might be: “How could one afford to live without it?” As Hebrews 10:35 reminds, “So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward.”