Say and Do!

Say and Do!

Whoever says he abides in Him ought [as a personal debt] to walk and conduct himself in the same way in which He walked and conducted Himself. 1 John 2:6 AMPC

Indeed, talk is cheap. Anyone can say anything or make claims, but as they say: "the proof of the pudding is in the eating." Today's extract addresses those who make claims to knowing Christ. They would have heard about Him; they would have read about Him, even attended fellowship and meetings where He was talked about and praised. Anyone could do all that, but what makes all the difference is what I do with all the knowledge I have acquired about God. Does it make me aspire to do right, to live right and to relate right?

And we note that the word used here is 'abide', not temporary accommodation. Everywhere you turn to in the Bible, God emphasizes dwelling, not just existing. Jesus used the same word when he was talking about the vine and the branches, and it underlines the importance of abiding in God. You can't abide in God, and your life will not show off the accompanying fruits. If I am struggling for identity and impact, then maybe I am yet to fully sort out the terms and conditions of my accommodation. Where are you presently located? How are you located: taking up temporary space or really abiding in God?

And the fruits of your status will always show, no matter how hard you try to hide it. It doesn't matter how long you are able to pretend; eventually, the truth about your allegiance will eventually be revealed. Those who know Christ have an obligation to show Him off. If I claim to be a child of God, then God has to be revealed through me. The men of Antioch probably didn't speak much, but those who watched them knew they were different and so called them 'Christians'. That's the power of a life that abides in Christ.

My words must match my actions, and I have an example worthy of emulation. Jesus' life has been laid bare before us through the Bible and we can draw strength and inspiration through His life. In speech, conduct, humility, association and attitude, He's the perfect example. I need ask myself this: Is my life pointing others towards or away from God? His time of favour is here.