First off, I am not blasting people or church, and I am not being judgmental. Each of us will answer to God for our lives. In saying that, I will now continue.... :)
The church is trying to "fit in" and be "cool" and in doing so, our attempt to be relevant in a world who needs Jesus, can turn into "irreverent". How? do you ask. Let's start with: Holiness. If we mirror the world in ways that we are supposed to be set apart, why would the world want to change? If our form of dress, conversation, lifestyle, how we treat others, and "accountability quotient" reflects an unchanged life, well, only you know who you are.
We serve a Holy God, and He doesn't conform to 21st Century social mindsets and graces; although the world constantly tries to tailor God to their image. He said that He changes not, and that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The difference the church makes will only come about when we know who we are in Christ and live as the individual He called us to be for Him, not Him for us. Are we in relationship or religion?
People are seeking fulfillment in their heart, a stability and peace that they can't put their finger on. We are wired for a spiritual relationship with our Heavenly Father and the only way the world can see Him is through us. The Holy Spirit draws people to Jesus, we don't. You might have a great worship team and a dozen programs going on all week (there isn't anything wrong with that), but the fact remains, are you living a Spirit-Filled life so that others are drawn by your witness to the One who called you?
In compromising holiness, your actions can be not only irrelevant, but eventually irreverent because of trying to please people by being "cool". People really don't desire that believe it or not. As Christians, we don't fit in. The Bible says the world will HATE us for His namesake. Guess what? That isn't the popular place to be is it? The Bible also says that if you're friends with the world you are an ENEMY of God.
In compromising holiness, your actions can be not only irrelevant, but eventually irreverent because of trying to please people by being "cool". People really don't desire that believe it or not. As Christians, we don't fit in. The Bible says the world will HATE us for His namesake. Guess what? That isn't the popular place to be is it? The Bible also says that if you're friends with the world you are an ENEMY of God.
Here is another way we should be different: John 13:35 says "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." If we are bickering among one another, hating one another, talking about one another, the love of Christ isn't there. In fact, 1 John 3:15 calls anyone who hates their brother or sister (in the Lord) a murderer. And 1 John 4:20 states that if you say you love God and hate your brother you are a liar. Pretty harsh? I didn't say it, the Lord did, take it up with Him.
I understand that there are ministries out there who are in it to make money, and it is shameful. So at this juncture I want to encourage you to examine your life. Are you living a life set apart for the Lord? Is church a routine? Are your prayers dry and you feel unfulfilled? Paul said he died daily. You will be tested, you will face challenges. You will never "measure up" to the worlds' standards and life is going to be rough. Til you draw your last breath you will face many things. But you know what? You CAN do all things through CHRIST who strengthens you. If you draw near to God, He WILL draw near to you.
Remember, it's relationship not religion.
Remember, it's relationship not religion.
Don't get caught up with the "Joneses", you really won't be happy if you're too busy trying to please others instead of trying to please God. Let your actions speak louder than anything you have to say. Trust me when I say, people are watching your life when you claim to be a Christian. Christian means you are a follower of Christ and that you are to be like Him....it may seem like your family or your co-workers aren't paying attention, but they are. They may give you a bad time and make your life miserable, but they watch you like a hawk. People really want to know if there is a stability and wholeness in the world, and to know if God really exists and He is Who He says He is. So, they watch YOU because you are an ambassador and representative of the Kingdom of God.
In closing, if you are not living the Lords' best for your life, and you know you're missing out on a relationship with Him like you should have, I would like to pray with you....
"Jesus, you know my heart. I've been away a long time and I don't know you like I should. I'm sorry and I ask your forgiveness. Spirit of the Lord, please draw my heart back to where it needs to be, in relationship with my Savior. Help me to be who I need to be, teach me and guide me, comfort me. Lord, you are awesome and I praise your Holy name. Father, I love you and I thank you for your mercy and your goodness. Create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me. In Jesus name, Amen
My heart is to see the church being about the Fathers' business; that we lead by example and live in relationship with our Lord so that the world will see a light in these dark times.
May the Lord keep you safe and in His love, ~M
