NOT ASHAMED

I was reading an article today that was titled "Study: Most People Wouldn't Recognize Christians" on charisma news. This article bothered me in so many ways because all too often, I see it to be true. There are many people who believe in Jesus as the savior, are saved, but hide their identity from the people that need to see it the most. This leaves me asking why?

There are a number of responses as to why people may do this... to name a few...

• lack of faith
• embarrassed for being different
• persecution from "the world"

I wanted to write this short blog as a reminder to why we are here. We are the light of the world. Jesus longs to have a relationship with each and every person and needs us to be that light. If we have not accepted God's love for us and if we are not walking in love ourselves - how can we share this light???

The Bible says in 2 Timothy 1:8-9:

Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord of of me his prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity.

 Think of it this way - what has Jesus done for you???? He has set you free from sin, death, sickness, negativity... He has given you grace, mercy, boldness, confidence, peace.... He has opened a doorway for you to walk out an abundant life of fellowship with Him! How awesome is that? The Creator of the universe longs to fellowship with you! Not only that - He is CRAZY IN LOVE WITH YOU! This is nothing to be ashamed of! I get gitty over my redemption. I can barely fathom the thought that I am His beloved.

Don't underestimate the impact that you will have on the next person. Although, they may laugh at you in public - I promise God is speaking to them in quite. You never know who you will impact when you make a stand. I heard Steven Furtick say this the other day "Don't let your expectations distract you from what God is trying to teach you". Stop and let that sink in for a minute. Let me give you an example. Perhaps you have been praying about a job that you felt the Lord leading you towards - you were confident - had faith but did not get the job. Your expectations were so high but it did not work out the way YOU thought it would... At this point, do you walk around mad? No. You lean on God - Well Lord what are you teaching me??? A more sensitive personal example right now would be the tornado that just ripped through Oklahoma. Those people did not expect to have their lives torn from beneath them - however - God could be teaching them to depend soley on Him or that He was with them through the storm!

You not being ashamed of the Gospel can impact nations. It makes a difference. Every little act of faith is seen by someone... the unbeliever, the coworker at your job, the little girl who lives next door to you, your children, and most importantly God. What is God seeing when he sees you? How can you boldly proclaim your salvation? I leave you with this.... Don't be ashamed of the gift of salvation given to you - the world needs this and needs to see its product. If you have time, read the following link. It is from Pastor Saeed who is now in captivity for his faith. It will really put things in perspective in relation to what is important in life. Love.

You can read his latest letter here.
Be Blessed - With love