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THE IMPRESSION YOU MAKE
We all have trials and we are all at different stages of spiritual development, consequently we all deal with difficulties in different ways. Fortunately we see signs of growth in some folks, and they become effective witnesses for Christ. Others, however, go on year after year giving no evidence that they have matured. That should be a matter of great concern–for a number of reason. One reason why we should be troubled by this has to do with the impression we make on others. D. L. Moody said,”Out of one hundred men, one will read the Bible, the other ninety-nine will read the Christian”. He was right. People are watching us–all the time. We do well to remember that we are the only Bible some people will ever read. Let’s make sure the message is clear! A godly life preaches a silent but powerful sermon!
As much as it pains me to say this–I understand why some folks have no interest in becoming a Christian. They watch professing Christians behave as though God is dead, or mighty sick, or terribly unconcerned. Instead of displaying joyful obedience, devotion to their duty, compassion for others, and a cheerful spirit, they drag around with a frown on their face, shun their duties, and show no concern for anyone else. Unbelievers watch them and come to the conclusion that if that’s what becoming a Christian does to a person they want no part of it. Can you blame them? We ought to do better than that!
Old Sam Jones used to say,”I don’t care what a man says he believes with his lips; I want to know with a vengeance what he says with his life and actions”. He’s not the only one to feel that way.Moody said,”A holy life will make the deepest impression. Lighthouses blow no horns, they just shine.” Our problem today is that a lot of “Christians” aren’t shining. They are leaving the wrong impressions on people who are in desperate need of Christ. That’s why Ghandi said,”I would have become a Christian had it not been for Christians”. O how sad! To think that the very people who should be the sinners greatest help becomes his worst enemy. Yet it just keeps happening!
Let us this very day get right with God and get rid of all those things that darken our testimony, deceive others and displeases God. Let us yield ourselves to the Lord and display the fruit of the Spirit so that others will see Christ in us. Until they see the difference Christ makes it is very unlikely that they will have any interest in fine preaching, gospel tracts, and invitations to church. If you are going to be an hindrance rather than a help it would be better if you didn’t even claim to be a Christian. As harsh as that might sound it is not nearly as bad as what the Lord thinks about the harm you are doing. It is a terrible sin to be a stumbling-block to others. Our manner of life should draw others to Christ, not drive them away. Think about it!
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346
