Rebel

On page 5 of chapter 1 (see note below), the authors say that this book is about “a rebellion against low expectations.”

It is not unusual to see the word “rebel” associated with teens. A “rebellious teenager?” Some might ask if there is any other kind.

But the truth is, we are all to be rebels, against some things. And also, it is wrong to rebel against other things.

It is wrong to rebel against God; against His Word; against God-given authorities, like parents, elders, and government. There are exceptions in cases with the last three, but there is a principle of submission here, not rebellion.

So against what (or whom) should we rebel?
Against sin and Satan, and the kind of tyranny that they would exercise over my mind and my heart.
Against the world and its God-ignoring tendencies, treating Him as though He does not exist or does not matter.
Against the worship and coddling of self, whether in avoiding responsibility, or in seizing selfish ambition.

The list could be long, and our lists will be different. What is your list of things against which you should (must) rebel?

Note:
Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations, a recently released book (Multnomah) written by 19 yr old twin brothers, Alex and Brett Harris, is a challenge to do just what the title says.

As a dad, mentor, and pastor, I have shared this book with a little circle, and we will be discussing its contents with one another. Here are some short posts con of my initial thoughts as I read through.