I have been a Christian my entire life. I was a Catholic for 18 years of my life, and for the last three years, I decided to start going to a non-denominational church and I've loved it ever since. I went to this church for youth group as a kid, and loved it. I learned so much more about the bible than I ever thought I could learn, and I made friendships that would last a lifetime. Church is a place where I feel safe, and where I feel at home.
Sometimes when I was in high school, and even now in college, I would get ridiculed about my religion. I don't hide who I am. Being a believer in God is not something you should be afraid of, so instead of hiding it, I embrace it. Now, I'm not the type of person that just randomly goes into the Quad and preaches the Word, and I don't go up to strangers and asked them "Do you believe in God?" I'm the type of person that, if someone has a question about religion, or wants me to share with them my testimony, I do it. I've learned so much about God and the Bible by asking questions, and if anyone wants to know an answer I'll be the first to give you everything I know.
An acquaintance of mine has recently decided to explore more in his faith. He was born and raised a Catholic, and still identifies as such. He reads religious novels and books, and seems very interested in the word. He recently became a leader at a youth group on his campus, and I couldn't be more excited for him. He really wants to express his love for God and show it to others. But with him, it's different.
This acquaintance of mine says he's a Christian. But the real question is: Is he actually a Christian? What I've failed to mention is this person is a liar, a manipulator, a user, and a b.s.'er. And I'm not just saying this to say it, he has actually admitted to me that he's a good b.s.'er and a liar. He knows how to get what he wants from other people. He has led people on (me included) about his feelings towards them. He puts on this act that he is this strong, good looking, sensitive and kind Christian athlete; but in reality, he is two-faced. He knows all the right things to say, until he gets what he wants. What I don't think he knows though, is that this little game isn't a game that God appreciates.
You see, my friends, there is a difference between acting like a Christian and being a Christian. You can act like you know everything about the Bible, and you can act like you're the realest person on the planet, but that's not going to get you too far with God. By being a Christian, you set examples for others. You are a real person. You don't put on some act for others. You are real, and you are yourself. You can't fool God. You just can't. He sees everything that's going on in your life. He knows that you're lying about things, He knows that you are not being the best you can be. Your ultimate goal is to love Him and live for Him, not live for yourself.
So, how can you do this? It's easy. Just pray to Him. Pray that you want to be real. Pray that you want to commit yourself to Him and do everything for Him and through Him in your life. Love him with every ounce of your being. Read your Bible, and when I say read, don't just read the words on the page; read into the Bible. And, last but not least, ask questions. If you want to know something about the Bible or God or Jesus, just ask! There's nothing wrong with asking. It makes me feel so amazing when people ask me questions regarding religion, because I love the fact that people are interested in Christianity. Be honest with God, and if you're honest, your life will be filled with so much joy and admiration for God and others. You will be your best self if you commit yourself to Him.
Be a Christian. Don't just act like one.
