Paul says the kingdom of God is to be lived, not just discussed. To talk about faith is just that – talk. Faith without works is dead. Don’t just talk about faith. Live by God’s Word. (1 Cor 4:18-20).
I can’t sit and pretend everything in my life is perfect because I’m a Christian. I can only tell the truth about what’s not perfect in my life because I am a Christian. While I cannot speak for anyone else but myself. I also have to be honest and tell the truth about my broken self. I’m a broken vessel. Please don’t judge me. Believe it or not, we’re all one step away from falling into the pit or entering eternity.
It doesn’t mean I’m perfect. None of us are. We’re flawed. We fail God every day. Every day, we all fall short of God’s glory. We may not always do the right thing. And although it’s not enough, sometimes we try to act like Christians but fail at being one.
I strongly believe there’s good in each of us. Some choose to do good, some don’t. Some don’t value their gift. Some gladly use their gift. However, what I have difficulty understanding is when you say you’re a Christian and act like one, why is it difficult being one?
In Ephesians 3:20, Paul tells the Philippians to remember that they are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. I ask, “Have you transferred your citizenship?”
When you say you are a Christian tell me how are you promoting heaven’s interest? Are you leading lives worthy of heavenly citizenship? Or do you fit in the same category as those who profess to be Christians and act like one? But fail to transfer their citizenship to heaven because they still seek earthly pleasures and treasures instead of heavenly ones?
When we become Christians, God makes us different on the inside. We no longer are the same person we once were even if we look the same on the outside. We love and obey God. Our hearts are transformed. Our desire is to be like Christ. We are conformed in his image. We spend time daily in his presence reading the Word, praying, and meditating. What we do on the outside reflect what is on the inside. Our hearts are devoted to God. We have a willingness to serve the Lord.
In every area of your life don’t just act like a Christian, be one. Live and act in certain ways that will please God. Change your mind set. Do what pleases God. Be selfless. Deny self. Glorify God in every good deed. God will be pleased.
Consistency is when you work every day to be Christ-like. It’s a journey. It doesn’t happen overnight. Discipline is required in order to grow. You can’t move forward when you’re not willing to change or accept discipline in order to grow.
Ask yourself these questions and then answer them. Have I transferred my citizenship? How am I promoting heaven’s interest? I say I am a Christian. Not only will I act like one. I will be one.
Isn’t it strange how God can use us fallible, broken, unfaithful vessels to speak to His people? Isn’t God good? We’re privileged. Thank Him. Lord we come before your throne of grace. Continue to use us for your glory. Thank you God for who you are. You are the great “I AM THAT I AM” (Exodus 3:14). Thank God I am a Christian.
Be blessed! –JD
John 13:13-17 “13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. 16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” (ESV)
Joaynn510 