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Keeping Our Identity – Be a Positive Influence
I notice that my colleagues never curse in front of me, and when they do, they apologize for doing so. Knowing that I am a Christian and that I do not curse has somehow rubbed off on them. They respect my beliefs and principles, and they do their best to act likewise when I am around. I’m sure that many other Christians have experienced similar situations.
We need to uphold our identity in a way that glorifies the Heavenly Father. We should never allow worldly identities to rub off on us. Rather, we should allow our Christian identity to be a positive influence on the people around us. Jesus teaches us, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Mt 5:16). We should live by what we believe according to Jesus’ teaching, not by what we can see in the world. “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Cor 5:7)
To ensure that we are not compromising our Christian identity and instead shining the light of Christ, we need to constantly examine ourselves. Do wholesome words come out of our mouth? Do we use our mouth to bless or to curse? Does our conduct reflect Christ? Do we dress modestly or provocatively? Do we do things based on what we see or what we believe? James says,
“Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening? Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh. Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.” (Jas 3: 10-13)
There was a sister whose spiritual live was revived through the positive influence of church brothers and sisters. This sister had a very busy social life when she was in high school. Wild parties, loud music, bad company, and a flashy dress sense ruled her life. She was caught up in a life where her true identity in Christ was slowly withering away.
When this sister entered university, she began to change. She started to attend church services more frequently and established close friendships with church youths. They reflected Christ in them, which slowly rubbed off on her. This sister now truly lives for Christ and continues to bear much fruit for Him. During her university years, she stood her ground as a true Christian soldier. This ultimately allowed her to hold on to her faith and keep her spiritual lineage.
Another sister used to stand at the door after lectures to see if anyone was interested in studying the Bible with her. Most people weren’t interested, since they were rushing off to a party or some other social event. But this sister was persistent. She had determined to share the gospel with others, and she stood firm in her determination. She knew her identity, understood her beliefs, appreciated the value of her life. And by faith she walked all her years in college, not by sight.
Jesus said, “Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves.” (Lk 10:3) We are indeed lamb among wolves. We need to be as pure as doves and wise as serpents. We need to show that we belong to Christ.
Do not conform to the world. Instead, dare to be different. And when we try to be a positive influence to the world, we need remember our spiritual identity and walk by faith, not by sight.
In order to cling to our Christian identity, we might need to break with the norm and even make some sacrifices. It definitely isn’t easy upholding our beliefs in a crooked world. But since we know our heritage, it’s important that we uphold our spiritual lineage and stand our ground. “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life…” (1 Tim 6:12).
Come and learn more about being a positive influence as a Christian through bible study, sermons and fellowship. We warmly welcome you to our upcoming Fall Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation. You can also join us for the Fall ESSC via online streaming. Here’s the ESSC schedule:
Thursday, September 26,2024 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, September 27-28, 2024 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, September 29, 2024 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Complimentary lunch and dinner will be served.
Please find our church location below:
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
Google Maps
In the meantime, please feel free to join us for our regular Sabbath (Friday evening and Saturday) services online or in-person.
Friday Evening Service: 7:50PM – 9:00PM
Saturday Morning Service: 10:50AM – 12:00Noon
Saturday Afternoon Service: 1:30PM – 2:40PM
Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org