Yesterday in Living a Sham I asked you to consider whether you’re living your life as a true Christian or whether you’re just ‘going through the motions’ of being a Christian.
Today I want to share some characteristics which we should have if we want to live a Christian life. Note, this is not an exhaustive list, they are just a few characteristics that I want highlight today – They cab all be found in Romans 12 verses 9-21.
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12:9-12 (NIV)
If we can follow this guidance, we can show others the characteristics required to be a Christian, and in doing so can help others see Christ through our actions. So take time to live these characteristics, and they will become who you are.
- Let love be genuine
- Hold fast to what is good
- Love one another
- Outdo one another in showing honor
- Serve the Lord
- Rejoice in hope
- Be patient in tribulation
- Be constant in prayer
- Contribute to the needs of the saints
- Seek to show hospitality
- Bless those who persecute you
- Live in harmony
- Associate with the lowly
- Give thought to do what is honorable
- Live peaceably with all
- If your enemy is hungry feed him
- If he is thirsty give him something to drink
- Overcome evil with good
The Distinct Dot 