What It Means To Be A Christian
Posted: Friday, April 18, 2008
by Star Lyn
I have found, because I have been looking, that a Christian is not just defined by an oath spoken on a bright and holy morning. Nor is a person given such a title because of birthright or status in the community. A Christian is person who has made a conscious, intelligent choice to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God; That He died on a cross where He was crucified, and was raised up in three days and who now lives forever. I believe that a Christian is responsible for more than just that belief. It is more than a title; a badge; a status symbol or a boast. It is a way of life. It is a struggle. It is being an example, even when there is no one there to see. It is taking responsibility to study and becoming versed in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is reaching out to others when they are in need of prayer, help, encouragement or comfort. It is to join in fellowship with others that share your beliefs. It is establishing and growing in your relationship with our Lord Jesus. It is putting out the effort, with integrity, to follow His ways, even when you know that you are a sinner.
You see, being a Christian means that my eternal soul is safe, forever. It means that I have dedicated my life to follow Jesus Christ. I have been on this earth for over 56 years and have made thousands of choices. Some choices have been brilliant, some acceptable and some not so good. But the best choice I ever made, was when I committed my soul, promised my eternal life to God, through His Son, Jesus Christ. It is a choice that I made many, many years ago.
It is big commitment, one that is the most important decision of one's life. But it must be made with the knowledge of why it is the only choice one can make that guarantees eternal salvation. It cannot be made because it is "the thing to do", or "everyone else is doing it", or because someone said to do it. God knows what is in your heart! He knows why you are doing what you are doing. He knows everything!
I have decided to re-dedicate my life to the Lord. Today, I stand before God, my family, my friends, and my fellow Christians, to declare my oath to my Savior. This ceremony is my way of expressing my new life.Will you join with me in prayer, as I confirm that Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savor?
"Precious, Heavenly Father, I come to You today, in front of all these witnesses, to declare my undying love and dedication to Your Kingdom. I openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Your Son; that He died on the cross for my sins, that You raised Him from the dead in three days and after He made Himself known to the many, You took Him to sit at Your right hand. I know that through Your grace, and through Your Son, my soul is eternally saved. I am grateful, I am humbled and I pray that I serve You well. I promise I will strive to live a Christ-centered life and that I will put You first in everything I do. And should I fall short of my desired goals, I pray that these witnesses here today will gently and lovingly guide me back to the path You have chosen for me. For as You told Jeremiah in 29:11, "I know the plans I have for you, plans of good and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope, your expected end." Because of Your grace and this declaration, I now have a hopeful future. I state this for all to hear, in the name of Your loving Son, Jesus Christ, Amen."
Thank you and God Bless.
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Top-level comments on this article: (3 total)Star an excellent witness. Now the truth is demonstrated in your works. 'You shall know them by their works". So yes it is not just a profession but in the doing and the living. Best Wishes RTMRobert, Thank you for your kind words. My faith is something that is a part of me, and something that gives me comfort on cold nights and a smile during the sad times. I appreciate your comments. Blessings, Star Lyn
Hi Star, simply beautiful, and I say Amen to your prayer and stand with you. May the Lord continue to use you as you surrender your everything for His everything. :-) TeresaTeresa, Thank you for your thoughtfulness. Where there are two who stand in agreement, there shall He be. God Bless! Star
Star, What a beautiful heart you have for God! I admire it and I encourage you to keep on striving on your goals that God has anointing you to be. Don't let no plan of the enemy to hinder you. I stand with you; for living in the will of God, and yes, it is a struggle, but count it all joy that we partake in the suffering that we may also partake in the resurrection and glorification. Seek the kingdom first and everything else would be added unto you. What beautiful words of salvation. With much love and blessings.
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