ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE DAY

"Are You a Practicing Christian?"

Have you ever heard or used the term "practicing Christian"? We all say things from time to time whether in serious conversation or in just joking for which we never have given a thought of the true meaning. "Oh c'mon, get out of here", "Sure, I know what I would do if I inherited a million dollars", or perhaps "break a leg." Standing alone, those statements sound ridiculous. So is the term "practicing Christian." Usually, it is one’s perception of another person that is the underlying reason for that question. The fact of the matter is that there simply isn't any such thing as a "practicing Christian." Either you're a Christian or you're not! Period! There’s no wiggle room in determining what category you fall into. If you’re not a Christian, whose fault is that? If you think it’s God’s fault, you are simply trying to rationalize “your” problem!

My former career took us to many places around the world and we have attended a number of churches over the years. There was one pastor who, in his heart, we know believed in Christ, but he simply didn't convey that belief to others, particularly in his preaching. That situation clearly does not exist at my church. Our pastor preaches solely and totally on and from the word of God with great belief, faith, conviction and passion. He teaches in the same manner. Perhaps your pastor is like that – a true man of God. So, if you are trying to make yourself believe it’s your pastor’s fault that you aren’t a Christian, you’re wrong again! And, if you think it’s your spouse’s fault that you aren’t a Christian, you must be at your wit’s end to find a scapegoat. Face reality – it’s your own fault!

Okay, okay, so you say that you are a Christian. Then what would lead people to ask you “Are you’re a practicing Christian?”. Let’s look deeper! Maybe their question should be “Are you an obedient Christian?”. Let’s see! Do you attend church regularly, not just on Christmas and Easter? How about Sunday and Wednesday evenings? Do you read the Bible between Sundays? Do you tell others about Christ? Do you serve God by serving your church in various capacities and do so willingly? Are you strengthening your faith and trying to get closer to Christ? And – here it comes – the “big one” – are you tithing? If you can truthfully answer “yes,” to all those questions, that’s awesome! If you are able to do those things, but in total honesty you have to answer “no”, then very clearly your actions and attitude reflect to others that you simply are not obedient to God’s word. Don’t be surprised if someone asks you “Are you a practicing Christian”?.

…..Bob “Christian Voices” (www.ChristianVoicesWorldwide.net)