This morning I had the opportunity to listen to one of my favorite Christian radio shows. The show is formatted to resemble a Bible study session, where there is an open discussion of a particular Bible passage, character, or faith principle.
Before closing, one of the study member said something that really resonated with me–so much that I had to share it with you. The question was this, “Do people think well of God from being around me?” This is a question worth some discussion.
We are told, in Scripture, who we are “in Christ”.
- We are children of God (John 1:12).
- We are His workmanship–His handiwork–born anew in Christ to do His work (Ep. 2:10).
- We are partakers of Christ; We share in His life (Heb. 3:14).
- We are ambassador for Christ (2 Cor. 5:20).
Since Christ has done so much for us, we should be the ultimate “poster child” for Him.
- For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him (2 Corinthians 5:20).
- Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil (Hebrews 2:14).
- In whom we have redemption through the blood, even the forgiveness of sins (Col. 1:14).
As followers of Christ, we are to be “salt and light” in a dark world. Our light should “shine” before men, that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven. We are not to be conformed to this world–darkened by “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. All this is passing away. But he who does the will of God abides forever” (1 John 2:16-17).
So, now, your response. “Do people think well of God after being around you? If your answer is “yes”, glory be to God. Hold fast to your profession of faith, in both word and deed. If your answer is “no” then it may be time to examine yourself to determine, “why not?” (2 Cor. 13:5)
