“Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ . . .” (Philippians 1:27, New King James Version).

Mahatma Gandhi, the prominent Indian political leader and a Hindu (1869-1948), stated, “I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.”

Have you ever been present when someone’s actions reflect negatively on being a Christian? It could be rudeness, an argumentative or critical attitude, a lack of integrity, poor work ethics, or other behavior that is not Christ-like. You felt embarrassed and uncomfortable. If only you could protest, “Don’t judge all Christians by the way she is acting!”

The validity of our Christian witness will be revealed by how we live our lives. The Bible tells us that we are to be lights in a dark world. If our actions are no different from those around us, how can they “see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16)?

Titus 2:7-8 says that it is possible to live in a way that even our critics won’t be able to say anything bad about us.

“In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you” (NKJV).

Wherever we go, others are watching. It’s important to live in such a way that they can honestly say, “I see Jesus in her.” And may their next statement be, “I want that same thing in my life!”

Prayer: Lord, help me to live in such a way that others will see Your light shining through me. May I guard my words and my actions so they do not reflect negatively on Your name. Never let it be said that someone turned away from You because of how I lived. I want my life to be a reflection on You so others will desire to also serve You.

Author

Mary enjoys traveling, meeting new people, and spending time with old friends. Although directionally challenged, she would rather take the back roads with their discoveries than the boredom of the interstate.

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