Story of Struggles and Conviction: Living as a Genuine Christian
Amidst the cacophony of life is a man named “Daniel.” His days are filled with the same routines: work, family, and an occasional social gathering. But every Sunday, without fail, Daniel dresses in his best suit, picks up his Bible, and heads to church. He prides himself on never missing a Sunday service, often boasting about his unwavering attendance. Going on and on about his dutiful and particularly strong conviction to attending church without missing, because he is such a great Christian!
However, despite his weekly visits to the sacred space, Daniel is disconnected
from the teachings he heard. He sings the hymns, listens to the sermons, but
his heart is untouched by the message of Christ. From Monday to Saturday, thoughts of God scarcely cross his mind. He is a Sunday dweller, convinced that his church attendance is enough to secure his place in heaven.
Ostensibly, in stark contrast is “Margaret”-a woman whose life radiates the love of Christ every day. Margaret’s faith isn’t merely confined to Sunday mornings. She lives her life with a heart deeply committed to Jesus, embodying the teachings of the Bible in her actions, her words, and her interactions with others.
And like so many of us, her faith isn’t always perfect-and although she faces
numerous struggles, her conviction and integrity shine through each
tribulation and valley.
The Struggle of Authentic Christian Living
Margaret’s journey isn’t without its challenges. She struggles to adhere to the Tenets of being a Christian in a world that often mocks her beliefs.
Her commitment to honesty, kindness, and selflessness put her at odds with the selfishness and deceit she encounters daily. She faces ridicule for her unwavering faith, yet she stands firm, knowing that her life’s purpose is to glorify God in all she does.
The Reality of Sunday Dwellers
I use the comparison of “Daniel and Margaret” in a “parable of sorts.” Sadly, Daniel represents a significant portion of the world today—individuals who
attend church out of habit or obligation but lack a genuine connection to Christ.
These Sunday dwellers often measure their faith by their church attendance rather than their relationship with God. They miss the transformative power of the Gospel, reducing their faith to a weekly ritual. They shake off the “Word” as they exit into the world that awaits them.
Not all – many embrace the Word and have it hidden in their hearts and dote on it daily. However, perhaps a staggering amount, that don’t place
importance of the Word fully all week long.
Kind of -Out of sight-out of mind.
Reflective Questions
- Am I living my faith only on Sundays, or does it permeate every aspect of my
life? - How can I deepen my relationship with Christ beyond the church walls?
- What steps can I take to embody the teachings of Jesus in my daily actions?
- Moral Introspective: Values and Integrity of a Genuine
Christian
A genuine Christian is one whose faith is reflected in their daily life.
Not just in their Sunday attendance. True Christianity requires values
and integrity that align with Christ’s teachings. It demands a heart that
seeks God earnestly, a spirit of humility and a firm commitment to
living out the love of Jesus every day.
Supporting Scriptures
James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
Matthew 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of myFather which is in heaven.
Colossians 3:17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Prayer
“LORD – we come to You with hearts seeking true transformation. Help us to live our faith genuinely, not just on Sundays, but every day. Grant us the strength to adhere to Your teachings and to embody the love of Christ in all we do. Forgive us for times we’ve merely gone through the motions and draw us closer to You. May our lives be a testament to Your grace and love, and a reflection of You in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Scripture to Ponder
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.