Being a Christian in today's world can seem very easy. America is known for it's freedom of religion, and down here in the "Bible Belt" of the South, going to church is the bread and butter of your upbringing. Attending a Christian university (such as SWU) can make it seem even easier; after all, God is everywhere. It's an odd day when you don't come across someone publicly praying or raising their voices in worship. Because of this, is it even easier to get lost in the complacency of modern-day Christianity.
Christianity shouldn't lend itself to complacency. Working for God should be an everyday, all the time, morning and night type of activity. Being Christian has become less about honest service, and more about making yourself look good. So here's what you need to do: ask yourself the following questions. Be truthful about the answers. And after all that, be better. Your God deserves the best.
1. What is really important?
If the first thing that comes to your mind isn't God, then your priorities are in the wrong order. Family is wonderful, friends are great, but God comes first. Make time for Him. Put Him above anything else: any summer adventure, any romantic plans, any trip or job. As a Christian, you are called to live for something bigger than yourself. You can't do this if you are spending your time worshiping idols. Tear down those pedestals.
2. Are you honest?
Lying is easy, especially when it's to yourself. Be honest: are you really being the best you can be? If you sit down and examine your actions, the answer is probably no. Be the one who seeks out every opportunity to be better, even if it's not easy. And be honest with others. Although it may be difficult to speak up, it will be worth it in the end.
3. What are your friends for?
Surround yourself with people who bring you closer to God. Do not be afraid to burn bridges to unhealthy people; you won't miss them. As much fun as it can be, there are hidden dangers in people who distract you from your goals. Make sure you know who your friends are, and that you are equally as committed to supporting them (and their faith) as they are to you. This will strengthen your walk with Christ in ways if you didn't even know possible, and you won't have to walk alone.
4. Are you doing this for God –– or for you?
In those moments that you stop and pray over someone, or buy a meal for someone who is going hungry, are you doing it to bring glory to God, or are you doing for the public admiration you'll receive when you post about it on Facebook? Many things you do seemingly in the name of Christianity wouldn't be done if you didn't plan on telling others. Ask yourself this before you reach out. Don't let your pride dictate your actions.
5. If you didn't tell them, would people know you were Christian?
If your Facebook wall and Instagram profile wasn't filled with Bible verses, and the back window of your car wasn't littered with "Jesus Lives" stickers, would people know you served the King of Kings? Sometimes you can say just as much about your faith in what you do. Never forget that you might be the only Jesus that some people see. Try stepping away from social media for a week and do selfless acts every day (without telling anyone about them afterwards.) After all, Jesus knows what you do. Who else matters?
Being a Christian shouldn't be easy. If it is, maybe you aren't doing a good enough job. Let it overwhelm you, let it change you, and then let it change others. Earn your spot in the Kingdom of Heaven.
