God has given my some opportunities to encounter a wide variety of people. Lately, it’s my coworkers.
These folks have, on several occasions, declared that they are Christians, love Jesus, go to church, read their Bible and pray regularly.
The other day I heard them say something that has lead me to some deep thinking and introspection. One said, “I love Jesus, but sometimes I tell him to look away because I’m about to do something He won’t like.” The other said, “Sometimes you gotta put your religion on the shelf for a little while, then pick it back up when you’re done doing what you want to do.”
For days I stewed over this comment. I was annoyed at them for being so blatantly hypocritical. I was frustrated that they displayed such a skewed understanding of the gospel. I was angry that they would abuse grace so harshly.
And then I heard this week’s message on LifeChurch.tv. Craig Groeschel talked about how we as Christians often do what we want to do even though we know it isn’t what Jesus wanted. He sited example after example of “little” things that aren’t really that little when you see them for what they really are. And every time we choose to do one of these “little” things, it’s like making an obscene gesture at Jesus while saying we love Him.
My heart was convicted. I could list a whole host of “little things” that definitely fit in the sin category. And I thought of my coworkers. At least they openly admit that they live this way. I talk a good game but sometimes I do the same thing – I put my “religion” on a shelf and do what I want for a while, though I’d never admit to it.
I am more geniunely aware of my need for Jesus now than I have been in years. Save me from myself, Lord.
3 Comments
February 10, 2009 at 2:49 pm
Wow, that’s some powerful introspection. God bless
Christopher
February 10, 2009 at 9:37 pm
Good stuff Amanda. Been there many times. Felt the same conviction this week. Thanks for sharing.
February 15, 2009 at 10:30 am
A friend of mine once challenged me that I was all-talk and no walk. I talked a big game, but secretly was far from being the person that I painted.That hurt. My wife continually reminds me to keep it simple because I can overcommunicate but not really say anything w/content.