Have you ever met someone that acted horribly only to find out later they were an "active" church member somewhere? I have and it's very confusing. Don't misunderstand, I'm not talking about someone having a bad day or moment of stress and misbehaving. I'm referring to someone who has a completely miserable or mean spirit.
Examples:
Unfriendly, coldish, never smiles and leaves you feeling awkward when you leave their presence.
I can still remember the day I found out a certain secretary (at a place where I worked too) was a God praising, hands in the air, eyes closed tight follower. It literally stopped me in my worship'n tracks! Every encounter I had ever had with her was ugly and rude (her part, not mine). She acted like she hated me! It left me feeling low and embarrassed each time I had to interact with her. And here she was singing in the big church choir….loving the same God that I do.
Didn't match up.
In my long life as a Christian, I've fallen hard on my own sword of fleshly behavior. I've misspoken, wounded with my words & actions, acted like a total idiot and completely embarrassed myself & those around me. I've also recognized it as wrong and tried to make it right as quickly as possible. I never want to misrepresent Christ because of my weak & human behavior but I have and probably will again.
It doesn' match up.
I've noticed how easy it is to sling scripture around and make ourselves look Christian-y. But if our behavior doesn't match up with our words, do they really count? I'm challenging myself and you today–if you are a believer/follower of Jesus Christ please live outloud for Him. The world is full of meanness. Why should the ones who profess to love in the name of Christ be jerks too?
Chew on that, friends and let me know…..do you agree?
Questions to ponder.
Do I act like a person who loves Jesus TO EVERYONE or just my closest friends/family?
Am I gentle with my words and kind with my actions?
Do I smile and speak when someone does the same to me?
Am I open to being helpful when approached by someone in need?
Do I make other's feel uncomfortable or am I warm & inviting?
BE HONEST. I want to match up with the love the Father has poured out on me. Don't you?
