One of my favorite routines by comedian Chris Rock is the one about dating. He says that for the first couple of months you are not dating the actual person; you are dating their representative. He’s saying it is the brochure, not the reality. After dating for a couple of months, people get comfortable, and their true selves start coming through.
If we are believers, you and I are representatives for God. Not just at church, but everywhere. Sometimes you see people who are loving and kind in church. Once they are outside, however, they become a different person and almost mow you down in the parking lot.
I’m working on being better at this myself. Many Christians give Christ a bad name. Many have their own definition. It’s sad, because we are not supposed to judge others, but many are judging God based on our actions when we say we are believers. Do our actions make a case for getting people to want to know more about God or give people a reason to want to avoid God and His people?
When I get frustrated by a life challenge, I try to remember this:
Philippians 4:11-13
11“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
We are representatives. Do you represent Him well?
Thank you, God, for Grace, Truth, Love, and Laughter,
Darren
(Reminder, this is just a journal of my mistakes, experiences, and thoughts along my journey to having a closer relationship with God. I do not claim to be an authority on the subject. If you want to know The Way, read The Bible. Find a Bible-based church, and get connected with other believers in your area.)
What church do I attend? Verve Church in Las Vegas
P.S. Thank you, especially, for grace.
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