adly, it seems that Christians today
are better recognized by what we are against
than what we are for. It is true that there are
many things God has called us to turn our
backs on, but I think we should be recognized by what we are for. I think we should
be living examples to both unbelievers and
fellow Christians as well. Following is a handful of characteristics that I believe the bible
teaches that Christians should be known for:
1. LOVE
1 John 4:8: “Anyone who does not love does
not know God, because God is love”.
Love is an automatic internal result of anyone
who truly follows Christ. In reality, it appears
to me that one’s faith in Christ is questionable if they do not demonstrate love. Regardless of the circumstance, reaching out in
love is one of the things that should separate
us from the rest of the world. “God loves us,
even when we don’t reflect the same image
in return” (Jarrid Wilson). We owe it to others
to try and do the same.
2. GRACE
Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in
Christ forgave you”.
The Grace of God has covered a multitude
of sins, and Christ’s sacrifice on the cross
paid the penalty for them. Although we don’t
deserve the grace we have been generously
given, Jesus continues to offer us grace
regardless of our situation. As Christ is our ultimate example, we should be known for the
grace and forgiveness that we show others.
It is true that it isn’t always going to be deserved forgiveness, but we need to remember that ours wasn’t either.
3. PURITY
Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers, whatever is
true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just,
whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever
is commendable, if there is any excellence, if
Page 22
there is anything worthy of praise, think about
these things”.
This is much easier to say and read than it is
to live out. Something to remember here too
is that when Christ-followers use the word
“purity” the implication goes beyond that of
just sex. It certainly includes that, but it also
refers to our speech, actions, and motives as
well.
4. PATIENCE
Galatians 5:22: “But the fruit of the