The 24/7 Christian
Several months ago, my husband and I joined a 24/7 gym. As the name suggests, the fitness center is open 24/7 for the convenience of its patrons. I’ve been pleased by our experience at 24/7, but it wasn’t until this morning that our Pastor’s message prompted me to think about being the 24/7 Christian.
Early in his message, our Pastor discussed an “Almost Christian,” one of his sources being a sermon by John Wesley. I should have taken notes about the definition of an “almost Christian,” but I remember these characteristics. An “Almost Christian” may result from being:
- A professed believer in God
- Born into a Christian family
- A regular church attendee
- One who avoids vices
- A good person
We know these traits are important, but these actions aren’t enough for us to be a Christian.
What/who is a Christian?
Focus on the Family describes a Christian.
“The term “Christian,” as we understand it, refers to anyone, man, woman, or child, who trusts in Jesus Christ as his or her Savior and Lord and who strives to follow Him in every area of life.” For a more detailed description please read an article from Focus on the Family here.
The above traits of an “Almost Christian,” (a good person), miss the mark when describing a Christian. To be a true Christian, we acknowledge Jesus as our Savior, recognizing He willingly gave His life for us on the cross so that we may have the gift of eternal life.
For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son so that whoever believes in Him will have eternal life. (John 3:16)
It’s our response to that gift of love that shows whether we are a Christian.
The 24/7 Christian . . .
Recognizes God’s great gift of love (Jesus our Savior) and regularly participates in praise and worship of Father and Son.
I will praise you forever for what you have done; in your name I will hope, for your name is good. I will praise you in the presence of your saints. (Psalm 52:9)
Lives by the fruit of the Spirit.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (Galatians 5:23-24
Loves others and shows love through action.
As God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. (Colossians 12:14)
Serves others
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. (Romans 12:10,13)
As a Christian, we walk the path of Jesus–we follow Him–we learn as much as possible from Him–we put His teachings into action by the way we live our lives.
I joined the 24/7 gym as one aspect of living a healthy lifestyle. I don’t exercise 24 hours a day, but I focus on healthy habits throughout the day by:
- Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Making healthy food and beverage choices throughout the day.
- Getting enough sleep.
- Praying, meditating, and Bible study each day.
Healthy lifestyle choices throughout the day are important for healthy living and quality of life. We honor God when we lead a healthy lifestyle.
Being a Christian is a 24/7 task, too. As we choose to walk with Jesus, we are putting Him first, making the decision to follow Him, learn from Him, and live our life as His disciple. Every action we take throughout the day shows the world if we’ve made it past the “Almost Christian” stage into the Christian life as a Christ follower.
Can you share other ways we demonstrate our walk with Christ?
Great article. We can demonstrate our walk with Christ by being honest when we make a mistake (or just plain sin) and speak up, confessing and asking forgiveness from the one we insulted or harmed. I think too many times we’re tempted to explain away errors by
making excuses.
Yes, Priscilla, I agree. We should take responsibility for our mistakes, admit them, learn from them, apologize and ask forgiveness. BUT…that takes a lot of courage and we often hide behind excuses or try to blame someone else. Thank you for sharing your helpful insights and wisdom with us.
We do need to realize our life is an open book. We are not just Christians on Sunday or because we were raised in church. We are to follow Christ by abiding in Him and exemplifying His life. Thanks for sharing this motivating message to remind us that others are always watching and listening.
I believe one of the most powerful ways we share our Christian faith is through our example. Others are watching. If we show our relationship with our Savior through the actions we display to others–we are a powerful witness for Jesus. Thank you, Barbara, for being a role model for us. May God continue to bless your ministry of service to Him.
What a great message to start the day!Thank you Katherine. One way to demonstrate our walk with Jesus is to pause and pray before speaking. Sometimes words aren’t needed. Sometimes a listening ear is best. 🙂 Have a blessed week! 🙂
What wonderful wisdom you have shared, Melissa–thank you. Yes…we should pray that our words and actions are pleasing to God and shared in a way that shows our love for His people. Wishing you joy and blessings!
24/7 is my desire. Thanks for the encouragement, Katherine.
24/7 is my hope and prayer, too, Terri. I’m praying God will guide us on that journey to serve Him. Peace and blessings.
Great message, Katherine. I think the habit of intentionally placing ourselves and the day ahead in God’s hands helps us to walk by His Spirit all day.
That’s a great habit to have, Annie–to pray each morning for God’s guidance throughout the day. Thank you for your wonderful example of faith.
I pray I remain faithful 24/7. Thank you, Katherine.
I pray that also, Diana. Thank you for being a wonderful role model. May God continue to bless your ministry to serve Him.
What an inspiring message! Thank you for being a 24/7 role model for a physically and spiritually healthy lifestyle.
You’re so kind, Candyce, thank you! You’d be the one I’d pick as the inspiring model of a healthy physical and spiritual lifestyle. Thank you for your wonderful example. Blessings!
Great post (as always) Katherine. It’s important to remember that we are Christians 24/7 because the world watches and catches us in the moments we lapse.
I agree, Yvonne, we are called to be role models for our Lord and others are watching to see if we shine the light for Jesus. Thank you for your kind encouragement. Peace and blessings!
I want to walk in God’s love 24/7, to receive it and share it. I want to be alert for how to pray for people or be there for someone else. And I wouldn’t mind 24/7 food for the soul (Scripture, meditation, and prayer times), plus I like eating snacks 24/7 because I am always hungry. 🙂 Thank you for your post, Katherine.
Thank you for sharing your hopes, Katy. What a wonderful example of faith you are for us. Thank you for sharing the love and light of Jesus with others.