Thursday, June 23, 2016

Believer or Follower? Verbal Christian or Visible Christian?

God has placed several different thoughts in my head today. I'm trying to sort them all out to write a coherent blog post. But I've found that if I just start typing, God lets the words flow in the way He wants them to. So here goes...

   People are quick to say, "I'm a believer!" I realize that 95% of them are saying they're a believer in Christ. That's all well and good. But you can believe in anything. For example, I believe that pandas are the most beautiful animals in the world. I believe that sunflowers should grow in every garden. I believe that Brazil is the most beautiful country. The list goes on and on. I don't think that saying I believe in God is enough. The Bible points out that even pagans believe. No, I think we should strive to be followers of God. I choose to follow His plan for my life. If He directs me to do something or not do something, who am I to question? I've done that. It's called sin. It's a slippery slope and I will not step foot on that slope again! You won't hear me say I'm a believer. If you ask me if I'm a believer, I'll say no. I'll then go on to tell you that I'm a follower of Christ who has lots of things I believe. Don't merely be a believer. Be a follower!

   Secondly, I think we need to remember that we very well may be the only Jesus others will see. Many of us profess to be Christians. We have our "Religious Views" section on Facebook identifying us as a Christian. We wear cross necklaces, listen to Christian music and go to church. However, when people look at the way we live our lives, they see that's not likely the case. Friends, going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than sitting in a garage makes you a car. Show people you're a Christ follower! Do what His Word commands! Honor your parents, be devoted to your spouse, train up your children in the Word, be honest with those you do business with, etc. If people don't see you doing those kind of things, they may never meet the Jesus you profess to serve.

   Friends, I believe our time in this world may very well be short. In light of that, we need to follow the words of John Wesley: "Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. To all the people you can. As long as you ever can." Don't just tell people you follow Christ! Show them! Introduce them to Him! Time is short. Live it well.

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