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“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world” – James 1:26-27
Self control and humility. Two words that are often times foreign in the 21st century vocabulary. As we discussed a few days back, the words that come from our lips cannot return thereafter and must be carefully chosen before speaking. Rash, crude or abusive language is demeaning to other individuals regardless of it’s intent. It demonstrates to the other individual that they are less worthy of intelligent conversation. Often times it expresses an anger or aggression that might be otherwise kept inside. Let’s be honest, when is the last time someone used foul language with you and your immediate reaction was “Wow, that person is very articulate and well spoken.” Generally, it is just the opposite reaction.
But it happens. We lose our temper and words have come from our mouth before we are capable of stopping them. What if you heard your Pastor, Priest or Minister using curse words from the pulpit? Would you consider them educated, full of the Holy Spirit and the love of God? Your impression of them would certainly be diminished based on their choice of words of this nature. We can’t demonstrate God’s love, mercy and kindness and then turn around and carelessly lose control of our words and actions. We have created an image of hypocrisy and reduced the image of God in the eyes of the beholder.
We must be able to exercise self control in this walk with God. The eyes of the world are upon you at all times when they realize that you are a follower of Jesus Christ. There is a natural tendency in all mankind to evaluate and judge the authenticity of your claim to Christianity. Jesus Christ set a very high bar for what Christianity looks like. Completely unachievable in this lifetime, but a goal none the less. His actions represented God the Father in everything He did, and so should ours. But it’s so much more than actions, it must come from the heart, mind and soul.
The more you are learning and strengthening your walk with Christ, the more you are naturally inclined to emulate and present His love, purity and humility to others. There is an old saying, “Imitation is the most sincere form of flattery.” (Charles Caleb Colton), and it holds so very true in today’s world. We need to imitating Christ and let others imitate us in our actions, words, motives and love towards others. Take control of our words and actions so others can see the Holy Spirit that lives within you, not so that you can look pious, holy and religious to those observing your actions. This little shift in your thinking will do incredible things for God’s Kingdom, because people will take notice and want to know what makes you different. Then you have the perfect opportunity to tell them.
ACTION: Church services are on Sunday, Wednesday and sometimes on Saturday night. It is expected that you put on your best behavior during those times. The real question is who are you when you aren’t in the comfort zone of the church sanctuary, or around your fellow Christians. Focus this week on living and demonstrating the “Christ-likeness” throughout the entire week through your language, actions, serving others and humbleness. See what a difference this new you will make in those around you.
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