Tougher Than Nails
What does it mean to be "tough?" The expression "tougher than nails" is generally used to describe someone who is physically strong. This conclusion, however, is not the only which can be used to interpret this word. People can justifiably be called "tough" without necessarily demonstrating physical strength. A student who works hard and stays focused in school can be called "tough" because of how distracting things around him may be. In my opinion, what makes a person "tough" is his ability to overcome an obstacle which presents him with a great challenge.
The perfect example of someone overcoming obstacles is Jesus Christ. The time surrounding His trial and crucifixion was a great challenge spiritually, emotionally and physically. While being questioned by the high priest at His trial, Jesus was struck unfairly by one of the officers (John 18:22). For many of us, the first reaction would be to fight back, but with Jesus this was not the case. He knew that what was happening was necessary in order for God’s will to be done (Matthew 26:54). Though Jesus may have seemed physically weak while He was being beaten and crucified, (Matthew 27:26, 35), He overcame His obstacles and our sins the day He arose from the dead. He certainly was "tougher than nails."
Isn’t it true that we sometimes get caught up in trying to become what the world views as "tough" instead of remembering what is important? Being a Christian is something which can definitely be described as "tough." We may not all be physically able to smash a brick with our bare hands, but we do have to frequently exercise strength in other ways. We would sometimes like to be able to fight back when we feel someone has wronged us, but if it will hinder us from obeying God, then hopefully we will realize that revenge is not that important. Even so, many of us sometimes feel it would be easier to crush a brick with our bare hands than to exercise self-control. However, when we overcome these obstacles and do what we know is right, we can safely call ourselves "tough" in a way that does not cause us to sin.
Where does the Christian’s strength come from? Do we suddenly just become "tough" one day? No. Part of being a Christian is realizing that everything is done through Christ (Philippians 4:13). We make the choice to submit and give up control of our lives to God. Alone, we are no more than people wandering in the dark, but when we look to our Savior we are strengthened because we remember that we serve the one who was certainly "tougher than nails."