lets talk: believing in God vs living for God

"You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that- and shudder."

James 2:19

Something that has been on my heart recently is how Christians in today's world have created a fine line between how Christian you can actually be... What I have noticed is one side of the line is saying you believe in God and the other side is both believing AND living a life for the glory and honor of God.

When you cross that fine line, however, that is when you become labeled a "Jesus freak" or "too Christian."

In what world should one believer tell another they are doing too much if it is bringing glory to the One you both supposedly believe in?

(LET ME PREFACE this post by saying it actually amazes me that I am writing about this topic. If I read this post in high school, I would feel called out and annoyed. I would probably say something like "You don't know my relationship with God, how do you know what I am supposed to do?" High school me would be right in a way, I don't know your personal relationship with God, but I do know the truth in God's word that He has left for everyone who believes in Him. It took me awhile to learn that there is a clear difference between saying you believe in God vs living a life for Him.)

A real world example of this fine line: You can have a Bible verse in your bio and wear a cross around your neck, but not go to the extent of actually applying Jesus' teachings and commands to your life because apparently "that's weird" or "too much". You might be wavering on that one side of the line out of fear- not wanting people to view you differently. It might be out of laziness- not wanting to open your Bible. Maybe out of pride- not wanting to admit how much we need God in our lives. But the thing is, God is not just an accessory to your life. He should not be just one of the things you believe in or someone you go to once in awhile.

How is the One that crafted you in your mother's womb, died for you, and wrote your name in heaven going to be a side character in the story of your life?

If you consider yourself a Christian and believe Jesus Christ lived a perfect life, took the penalty for your sins, and rose from the dead- people should be able to tell. I love that quote that says "You may be the only Bible someone encounters in their life." That has greatly changed my perspective of how I should live. This is NOT to make you feel bad and think you "aren't doing enough", but to remind and encourage you that we are called to be a light in this world.

Matthew 5:14-16 says “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

We are called to be different. To live a life that honors Jesus and reveals His character and sacrifice to others. Jesus lives in us through our faith in Him. If that faith truly is firm and pure, your heart will be changed to do good in this world.

I think this whole thing revolves around faith and good works.

Because it is true that it is by grace, through faith we have been saved- not through good works alone. (Ephesians 2:8) However, faith and good works work hand in hand. While having that faith in our heart, we also must express it outwards. Good works FUEL our faith. The book of James talks a lot about the importance of faith x good works.

James 2:26 "As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead."

James 3:13 "If you are wise and understand God's ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom."

We are not perfect. If we were, we would not need Jesus. We are human and will always make mistakes and fall short to sin. BUT there is a huge difference between falling into sin and living a life in sin while you claim to believe in God. And something I know about Jesus is that if you offer your entire heart and life to Him, He will change your heart AND your ways. You will live abundantly forever.

If living a life that honors God and His plan for me means I am a "Jesus freak" and "too Christian" then that's exactly who I am !!!

VERSES

James 2:19

Matthew 5:14-16

Ephesians 2:8

James 2:26

James 3:13