Not Ashamed of Christ

In my studies I am sometimes reminded that there are people who have paid a serious price for their commitment to Christ.

When this reminder comes my way it is not unusual for me to recall that there have been times in my life when I was reluctant or even embarrassed to stand up for Christ because I did not want to be thought of as one of those “religious fanatics” who is a little too far out there with this Jesus-stuff.

Believe me, I am not proud of this. It is an embarrassing admission of weakness. You see, I did not want to risk being teased or mocked. I did not want to be thought of as un-cool [which is ironic because I’ve never really been cool in the first place, but I didn’t realize it].

This is not very good, huh? People have been willing to stand up to torture and execution—they’ve literally been killed—for the cause of Christ and I’ve been unwilling to face a little bit of teasing.

Please understand I’m not trying to force my beliefs on others. I realize it is not possible for me to make people embrace something they do not want to believe. And I realize a number of people who read this do not see things the way I do. But I post a good bit about my faith in Christ because of the extraordinary influence He has had on my life and the lives of many others whom I know and love. Also, because I have come to a place in my life in which I feel no shame regarding the truth of Jesus and who He is and what He has done. I am not embarrassed by Him, I am proud and honored to know Him.

Oh, and there is this factor, too: I have a greater understanding of the inevitability of truth.

“For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes…”  Romans 1:16 [NLT]

Don't Be Discouraged

A guy named Paul wrote the following words:

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”  2 Corinthians 4:8-9

Some of the most optimistic people I know can, sometimes, look at the conditions of our world and be discouraged.  Or, they may be dealing with circumstances in their own lives that seem overwhelming and, again, a sense of despair can occur.

Paul’s circumstances were about as difficult as they get.  Discouragement would have been an understandable response for him.  But he did not descend into despair.

Paul writes further on the matter, based on his faith in Christ:

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”  2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Why I Share God Stuff

Several years ago, a good friend suggested that I get on Facebook.  I was a bit reluctant but I figured, “Oh well, let’s give it a try and see what happens.”

I hoped to share a few fun stories and, hopefully, spread a little humor. 

(By the way, it hasn’t escaped my attention that my humorous stories that get the best response are the ones that reveal my weaknesses, mistakes and foolishness.  Hmm…)

But I also wanted to write some things that would be thoughtful, sincere and helpful.

So, you may notice that I frequently write on Facebook and other social media forums about God and my faith in Christ.  Please understand, I don’t do this because I believe myself to be holier than others or as an attempt “force my religion” on people. 

Some of my friends have no interest in this “God stuff.”  I am aware of that reality.

But I hope you will understand that the reality of God and my love for Him is the essential truth of my life.  It would be dishonest for me to attempt to write things that are important and true and not mention God.

It is my desire to express truth in my writing.  I am thankful for your patience and respect with my understanding of these matters.  I will always attempt to extend that same respect to you.

Love and blessings,

Dan

Surprised To Come To Christ

There have been times when people have been very surprised to find themselves coming to faith in Christ.  They didn’t think such a thing was possible.  At one time, they considered something like faith in Christ to be silly or laughable; the refuge of the weak.  But recognizing our need for God is not silly or weak it is what happens when the light is turned on and suddenly we can see.