Let’s be honest.
Many Christians stink.
Figuratively speaking, of course.
And I’m part of that company.
I’m already in the running for being the The Least Christian.
So, it’s fair to say I’m not winning any special aroma awards.
Consider what the Apostle Paul said to the Corinthians:
“For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task?
(2 Corinthians 2:15-16)
And who is equal to such a task these days?
Especially in the wealthy western world.
The reason is simple.
We proclaim our faith, but rely on our own strength to overcome.
As a result, we become the perceived source of our victories.
I can relate.
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My life is full of greatest hits (or misses).
Here are some of my popular tunes:
I’m smart enough to figure it out myself.
I know what I’m doing.
I won’t get upset this time.
I’m not going to make any mistakes today.
There is no temptation I can’t overcome.
Look what I accomplished.
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Are many Christians singing the same tunes to receive applause?
Paul didn’t mix words with the Galatians:
Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goals by human effort?
Have you suffered so much for nothing – if it really was for nothing? Does God give you his Spirit and work miracles among you because you observe the law, or because you believe what you heard?
(Galatians 3: 3-5)
Celebrate Your Weakness
Believe what you have heard.
The Gospel truth is that victory for Christians is achieved in weakness, not in strength.
Our strength gets in the way.
Our strength stinks.
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There is no doubt we are capable of doing good things by our own power.
But there is greater purpose and example if we boast of our weakness and His strength.
In the same letter to the Corinthians, Apostle Paul clearly concludes:
“If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.”
(2 Corinthians 11:3)
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Do you agree this is why so many Christians stink?
Other thoughts?
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Let the spirit within you be your guide. Give praise to that which helps us become what would not become otherwise. Know that regardless of our actions, we are still fated to be sinners. If not for the blood of christ, we would be condemned to death. It is only through the blood of christ that we are saved. Today, tomorrow and forever.
Thank you Brother. I will also add that it is only through the ascension that we have the power of the Spirit. Whether we use that power, is a matter of our weakness.