Looking like a Christian more than looking like the world means a lot. It has effects that you wouldn’t believe. It makes people ask questions and leads people to Jesus because it shows Jesus.
The Word talks about how the apostles were not educated men yet the people knew they had been with Jesus (acts 4:13). Why? In this case it was because they knew His Word. In other places in the Bible it is mentioned how we should walk among the world so that we cause others to glorify not us, but God (Matthew 5:16).
Thus openly being a Christian, a REAL one, has real power and is not only a great idea, but a command. But how does that look? Secondly, why is it so hard to do?
There are things that even the non-Christian “nice guy” might already do. The difference is the motivation and to whom we attribute our desire to do good. Things like going the extra mile to help others. Holding doors, giving to the needy, smiling, giving preference to others and the like. Doing things that catch someone by surprise. Being loving. Being merciful. Being gentle. One of most powerful yet currently non-existent characteristics one can convey is gentleness. God requires this of us and says it in His Word (2 Tim 2:24).
The way you speak can convey your faith immensely. This includes what you say and how you say it. We are even to defend the gospel with gentleness (Eph 4:14-15). Christians should be loving and merciful yet decisive as God is loving and merciful yet just.
Words are potent little game changers. Try saying “blessed” instead of “lucky”. Say “have a blessed day” instead of “have a good day”. “God bless” rather than “take care”. Use the phrase “Lord willing” when talking about the future (Jas 4:13-15). Talk about church service when asked about your weekend. You can go on and on about your kids, your girlfriend or your family right?. Talk about your God and make Him part of your conversation if He truly is part of your life. Talk like a Christian.
Openly defend the faith on certain topics and when making choices. Don’t go where they go. Someone asks you to lie in the office, tell them no. Be open and proud that you don’t get drunk, sleep around AND TELL THEM WHY. When they ask about the hot moral topic of the day, stand your ground. This goes for those who bring false “Christian” doctrine. You never know who you are teaching or correcting and ultimately saving through your steadfast faith. Make the most of these great opportunities to teach Christ.
Do these things and more (this is by no means an exhaustive list) and see how much fruit you bear for the gospel.
But this is not easy. Why? Because we get scared of what people think of us. We don’t know our Bible well enough. We don’t stay in our Word or around Christians enough to have Jesus in the forefront of our minds. Or we are just plain lazy.
Once we work though those challenges and take it one situation at a time, we will do so much for God. The best way is to just do it. Dive in!
These are all things you can do now!
Blessings in your Christian walk.
Enjoy this fresh one from 1Girl Nation.