cchrisholland

Medals, ribbons, and certificates, are all methods of being recognized for service, devotion and “going beyond the call of duty”. In the Christian life, there is also recognition, but not from peer acknowledgment. It’s based on Christ’s approval, and concerning the subject, the scripture gives this guidance:

“But he who glories, let him glory in the Lord. For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.” – 2 Corinthians 10:17-18 NKJV

The competition is fierce, but it’s not against others, it’s against ourselves and the battle is waged within our hearts. The subtle whispers related to acceptance, rejection, and popularity can greatly influence our perception of what’s “commendable”. However, the Lord says He’s the One who holds the power to declare what is-and-isn’t worthwhile. What about today’s competition? As the struggle begins remember:

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.” – 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 NKJV

Will you answer the call of duty? Let’s commit to fight for the things He considers worthwhile…today.

In your walk of faith, what motivates you? To be faithful? Read your Bible? Attend church? Pray? Share a testimony? According to scripture it should be this:

“For the love of Christ compels us…” – 2 Corinthians 5:14 NKJV

The compelling should be love based; Christ’s love for us, and our response of love back to Him. The next verse also adds that those who are in Christ should “…live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them.” (2 Cor. 5:15 NKJV) because through Jesus we are “re-made”. Consider:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, He is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold; all things have become new.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV

We are re-made for service and a few verses later (v.20) the job is described as “ambassador”. We are to represent, engage, and plead when necessary as royal representatives. We are sent, empowered and charged with a divine mission to represent the King; a loving King who desires reconciliation with all who will respond.

So what compels you today? Is it the favor, acceptance or recognition of other believers, or is it love for the King? We are ambassadors for Christ…

Ever seen a headline like “$10,000 Baseball Card Found in Old Trunk”, or “Priceless Painting Bought at Yard Sale”? It’s amazing what turns up when attentive eyes are looking. While those stories are intriguing, one of the most incredible stories of discovery is the finding of God’s Law in the Temple after years of being lost (2 Kings 22:3-20). At the time, King Josiah was trying to “do what was right”, (repairing the Temple, removing idols, etc.), but when he heard the actual words written in the Book of the Law, he understood completely and tore his clothes in repentance. He had found real treasure indeed.

As followers of Christ, we possess the same precious treasure…God’s life-giving Word. In much the same way, many around us recognize the need for reform; such as changing habits, cleaning up language etc., but like Josiah’s pursuit of good changes, they’re incomplete. Only God’s truth and the Holy Spirit can move someone from pursuing reforms, to realizing their deep need for Jesus’ grace and forgiveness.

Perhaps you hear that and agree, but feel intimidated to act on it. If so, consider how Paul describes the good news of the gospel:

“Now we have this treasure in clay jars, so that this extraordinary power may be from God and not us.” -2 Corinthians 4:7 HCSB

You’re not alone in feeling inadequate…we all do. Paul was skilled and experienced, yet he described himself carrying the gospel as a clay jar. And like him, we’re simple, breakable and common, but the treasure is not. It’s extraordinary, durable and priceless. You may be just the person to help someone make the discovery of a lifetime.

“A city is built up by the blessing of the upright, but it is torn down by the mouth of the wicked.” – Proverbs 11:11 HCSB

Never underestimate the power of your presence. There’s a sphere of influence that goes everywhere a disciple of Christ goes; and through lifestyle and words, the Kingdom is communicated.

God is a God “of order”.

In many ways, we can observe creation and see that God made the universe in a manner that’s understandable (laws of physics, etc.). Of course, there are many things we’ve yet to understand, but in what theologians call “General Revelation” we see and know certain things beyond mere cultural explanation. For example, a mom is naturally inclined to love her child, but strangers also instinctively know that she “ought” to love and nurture her child…why? Because it’s hardwired in us.

In I Corinthians 14, Paul mentions “Godly order” regarding the way church gatherings should be conducted:

“For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.”

“Let all things be done decently and in order” – I Cor. 14:33, 40 NKJV

Yes, the definition of proper decency may be up for some debate, but the underlying attitude toward personal conduct shouldn’t be. Pettiness, self-promotion, arrogance, manipulation, pride, etc. should be rejected, not excused and justified. And when those things pop-up, observers often sense that it “ought” not to be that way. Even non-believers can sense it and get confused about what it means to follow Christ.

Are your habits today within the body “decent” and “orderly”? If so, they reflect a heavenly principle, if not, perhaps a moment of prayerful reflection is “in order”.