The Christian life is not to be attempted, but rather enjoyed. I believe that this is the point at which we misrepresent Christ to the world. If all they see is frustrated, striving sheep -- trying to “will themselves” into living the Christian life -- then we’ve missed the boat. Christ never meant for us to squirm around in our own strength until we “get it right.” Yesterday and today, this fact remains -- the only person who can possibly live the Christ-life is Christ himself. We are therefore to abide in him as he lives his life through us. This is not a quick fix or a simple answer -- I believe it to be the very truth of scripture. We are to rest in him, listen to his voice, and “get out of the way” -- so that he can literally live through us.
Perhaps when non-believers see surrendered Christians who enjoy the life of Christ in and through them, instead of tortured souls, flailing themselves for their failures and walking around in the doldrums of performance-based anxiety -- then they might actually believe what we claim about our Savior.
Thanks...I needed to hear that.
Posted by: Brian D | November 26, 2008 at 05:49 AM
Philippians 2:5-7
5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
6Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.
The best way I've found to show the love of Christ is to serve.
Posted by: Luke Coles | November 26, 2008 at 10:53 PM
Do you think reading your religious entry on your blog count as going to church? I have to miss this Sunday due to travel so I'm hoping this will work instead.
Posted by: Rondell Jenkins | September 11, 2009 at 11:14 AM