Are You A Chocolate Soldier?

by Rick Gregory 
05/25/25
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C.T. Studd, once a famous English cricket star, walked away from wealth and fame to bring the Gospel to those in China, India, and Africa. He wrote The Chocolate Soldier in 1913, in England for a visit, while living in the jungles of the Belgian Congo. There, he suffered sickness, loneliness, hardship—all to bring Jesus to those who’d never heard His name.

In this polarizing booklet, Studd warned of the dangers in being “chocolate soldiers”—those who melt when life gets hard, who avoid risk and discomfort to live boldly for Christ. His words still pierce just as sharply today.

Let’s be honest: we live in a culture of wealth and self-indulgence. We have climate-controlled homes, instant entertainment, food delivery, and countless options to make life safe, secure, enjoyable and predictable. But Jesus said: “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9:23, NLT)

Taking up your cross isn’t safe or convenient. It means stepping into sacrifice. It’s showing up for the struggling neighbor, forgiving when it’s hard, giving generously, and possibly (likely?) even going where no one else wants to go.

Studd’s challenge is to our generation too: Will you be a chocolate soldier, or will you be a real one? Is your life marked by heroism and unwavering faith? Do you melt under the heat of inconvenience or discomfort or insecurity, or will you stand firm, ready to risk everything for Christ?

Ask yourself: Where am I holding back because it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable? Where has God been nudging me to step out in faith?

Lord, shake me out of my comfort. I don’t want to be a chocolate soldier, soft and easily melted. Give me the courage to live recklessly abandoned to You, to embrace sacrifice, and to trust You even if You call me into the unknown. Amen.

Rick is the well-loved husband of Sherry for over 53 years, dad to 3 remarkable children and their spouses, and Poppy to 8 beautiful grandchildren.