…be a living sacrifice…be holy, acceptable to God…be transformed…renew your mind…
Romans 12: 1 & 2 (WEB)
What is wrong with the thought below?
Being a Christian is very hard. I have to constantly worry about fighting against sin and temptation all the time, not to mention being religious enough.
That statement is the antithesis of our faith.
The only thing that is accurate in the statement is that it is hard to be a Christian. Jesus said so. And He knew that from personal experience. John 16:33
If you are a committed believer, you understand the challenges of living in this world and facing sin. God provided us His Helper ( John 14:26) to navigate these difficulties, along with His Word (Ephesians 6:10-18) and fellowship with other believers.
As far as being religious enough is concerned, that is a false notion that should never be attempted by a believer. It leads to a “work for it” frame of mind. That is a sin. It cheapens everything that Jesus did for us at Calvary.
What I’m talking about is living for Jesus. Every heartbeat—every word, deed, and motive, all for Jesus, without having to whip out your Bible or preach at people.
Simply shine where you are.
This is not just a call to behave ourselves and avoid sinful lifestyles. We will struggle against sin until we are taken to Heaven.
What we are called to do and be as believers is this.
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service. Don’t be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God.
Romans 12:1 & 2
One of the coolest ways of implementing this is by interacting with people. When we do that, the way we relate to them is very important.
Have you thought about letting others shine in a conversation? Are you an intentional listener who avoids interruptions while knowing when to add comments? These qualities glorify God and prevent us from appearing narcissistic.
Are you friendly to people that you don’t even know? Do you think of others first? Do you have good manners? Are you kind?
For I say through the grace that was given me,
to everyone who is among you,
not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think;
but to think reasonably,
as God has apportioned to each person a measure of faith.
Romans 12:3 (WEB)
Your choice is to glorify your Savior, or you can dishonor Him, the One who gave His very life for you.The Spirit of God lives in you and goes everywhere with you, touching each life that you touch.
Now, take a look at the rest of Romans 12. This is a very positive approach to how believers can bring glory to our God.
Glorify
Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil. Cling to that which is good. In love of the brothers be tenderly affectionate to one another; in honor prefer one another, not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord, rejoicing in hope, enduring in troubles, continuing steadfastly in prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints and given to hospitality.Bless those who persecute you; bless, and don’t curse.
Rejoice with those who rejoice. Weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Don’t set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Don’t be wise in your own conceits. Repay no one evil for evil. Respect what is honorable in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as it is up to you, be at peace with all men.
Romans 12:9-18 (WEB)
Share the Gospel in your world!
Isaiah 52:7
World English Bible (WEB)
by Public Domain. The name “World English Bible” is trademarked.
