My dear Evangelicals, listen, I love you. I'm a big fan of all of you, but there's just one question I must ask. It's fairly simple and straightforward but it requires honesty. My dear Evangelical Christians, what are we doing?

Listen, I'm not trying to upset you or make you hate me. I'm merely trying to understand. I just simply don't get it. How did we get so far away from the point of the Gospel? Correct me if I'm out of line or if I just don't get it but isn't the point of the Gospel, the good news about Jesus, supposed to bring hope and joy? Then why do we act like we have neither of those things? So many times I see people walking around with a look of despair. Christ brings joy, peace, and hope into our hearts when we accept Him as Savior and Lord. Maybe the problem is that second term: Lord.

The word lord means someone or something having power, authority, or influence. When used in reference to God or Jesus, it declares that He has power, authority, and influence in everything. Is Jesus the LORD of your life? Accepting Him as savior is easy. I need help. You need help. We all need help. We are dead without Jesus. Making Him LORD is a little challenging. Declaring Him as LORD of your life means that you're setting down your own desires, passions, pursuits and wants to pick up the Cross of Christ. It means that you no longer rule over your life but Jesus does.

If we're being honest, I struggled with this concept for a long time. I was willing to acknowledge Jesus as my savior because I knew I needed help but setting down what I wanted was different. It hurt and didn't feel right at first but the joy that comes from giving your burden to God is unlike anything. If I could describe the feeling that comes from it I would but I lack the vocabulary. I encourage you that as we start 2017 and we start to write on the blank pages of this year, make it the year you make Jesus LORD over your life. It's hard, it might hurt, and it probably won't feel right. It's worth it, though. The peace that comes with making Jesus LORD is indescribable. My prayer is that we as evangelical Christians would make Jesus LORD in our lives so that others may see our good works and praise our Heavenly Father. My dear evangelicals, may we be different. Much love and God bless.