“It isn’t enough for people just to know we’re Christians. [God] wants us to live like Christians boldly — not irritatingly or obnoxiously, but with conviction and confidence. He wants us to be filled with joy and for our joy to be a testimony to those around us.”- Chip Ingram
“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.”- 2 Timothy 2:24-25 (NIV)
Chip Ingram concludes Chapter 7 of I Choose Joy with the apostle Paul’s third specific instruction.
3. Don’t shrink back. Even though we live in a culture hostile to the gospel, we must not let that intimidate or alarm us. Above all, Chip asserts, we need to look beyond politics and culture wars. We must remember that God calls us to advance the gospel. To proclaim the gift of salvation and Jesus’ life-transforming power. That’s what’s at stake!
Therefore, Chip underscores, this involves a matter of trust. Hence, we need to trust God’s care for someone who stands up for the truth. Who refuses to shrink back. In addition, Chip observes:
“It takes courage to stand up for what one believes, and it takes humility to genuinely listen to where others are coming from and trust them as fellow human beings whose perspective and values may be different from yours, but who are made in the image of God and demand your utmost respect. One does not have to compromise one’s faith or convictions.”
In conclusion, Chip stresses, as citizens of the kingdom of God, we have a calling. A calling to demonstrate the character and nature of the King. Most significantly, our calling isn’t exceptional, Rather, Chip states, it’s normal Christianity. So we must stand firm, press forward, and live out our calling with commitment and boldness.
Today’s question: What Bible verses spur us to live like Christians boldly? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Joy and suffering – incompatible?”