There is a current attitude among many Christian circles that we ought to focus on the goodness and graciousness of God and not be concerned about seeking change in our own individual lives. Just talk about Gods attributes and just accept who we are without expecting different behavior, attitudes, and appearance of self after salvation, because after all, God accepts us as we are by grace. While it is true that we are saved by grace and not by works, God has a goal of changing us to be like His Dear Son, Jesus Christ, Who is Gods manifestation of Himself to mankind. Aside from all the other theological considerations of the following verse, one thing is clear: Jesus is the pattern to which we are purposed to be conformed. Rom 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. For the Christian to say, I am who I am and so dont try to change me is to go against the clear will of God unless one is already perfect and I think we all know the answer to that. For example, the self-willed, irritable, miserly, roguish person who must always have his own way, must allow himself to be changed into the image of the GRACIOUS Lord. Ps 86:15 But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. Ps 103:8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. What does it mean to be gracious? Websters 1828 Dictionary gracious GRACIOUS, a. L. gratiosus. 1. Favorable; kind; friendly; as,the envoy met with a gracious reception. 2. Favorable; kind; benevolent; merciful; disposed to forgive offenses and impart unmerited blessings. 3. Favorable; expressing kindness and favor.... How do you react to others with whom you disagree? I was reading posts by individuals on a beekeeping forum yesterday. Two beekeepers posted differing opinions about the art of beekeeping. One was deeply offended that the other dared to have a different opinion and immediately called the other an idiot and began to revile him unmercifully. That is not graciousness. How do we represent Christ to the world around us....and to our friends and family?
Posted on: Wed, 25 Jun 2014 14:48:39 +0000
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