I posted this on a comment from a blog post by Richard Mouw.

Christians sometimes express pride regarding times when persecution actually induces numerical growth and loyalty. We are sometimes a bit selective about that observation when forced to recognize the same dynamic occurs with other religious groups as well. I would ascribe some of this dynamic to plain old human obstinacy. Part of the package of fallen human rebellion is just plain not liking to be told what to think, what to believe or what to do. Push us one way, we’ll complain, dig in or even go the other way just to be difficult.

In our present context where not telling people what to do has become a faith of its own it is not surprising that we like sheep die for lack of activity or initiative. Pain and difficulty clarifies and sharpens.  Extremism can be its vice. The vice of ease is lethargy. The good news is that lethargy tends to yield want which leads to pain and off we go again.