A Testing of the Faith

Wow, April 1 already?

It is weird to think that Dan and I have been living here in Minnesota for 3 1/2 weeks, yet at the same time, it feels like it’s been way longer (pretty sure I’ve already said that in previous posts, but just reiterating the fact that it is WEIRD!)

Yesterday we had a WONDERFUL Easter! Throughout the weekend I was trying to keep drawing my mind back to what Christ did on the cross for us. That is something I have been trying to practice more – the presence of God. This is so sad because I realize I should be doing this as a Christ-follower – implementing God into EVERY aspect of my life. Being a Christ-follower, that means I should ALWAYS look at my lead – God. But how often do I just go throughout my day, not even THINKING about God in the littlest things in life? I let life just happen. Do you ever have that? Do you stop in your day and wonder “am I living this moment for God or for myself?”

Dan and I had a really good conversation the other day about Christianity. It spawned off a Bible study he attended. Not sure how much of it was from the Bible study or just from Dan’s own thoughts, since I wasn’t there, but it has made me want to live out my faith that much more (such a cliche saying, isn’t it?) But it’s true.

We got into deep conversation over this thought: how much do we let the world “control” Christianity, instead of letting God use us in this world, as His ambassadors? I think about the recent rumblings in the news about same-sex marriage. I am probably going to ruffle some feathers with this one, but I just pose these thoughts, as questions to ponder. I personally believe homosexuality is wrong. I think the Bible makes it very clear and I am going to stand up for my beliefs. But I realize too, that I only have so much control and influence. And so do you. I serve God first and foremost. When it comes to same-sex marriage, do we think Christianity is just going to go downhill? I am not so sure that is true – if we think it is, does that mean our faith is shallow and is based solely on how “others” react? Christ said following Him is NOT an easy path – it will be difficult, but look at the path He walked for us. We may be “persecuted” for what we stand up for. People may disagree – but think about those in other countries who die for standing up for Christ? For what the Scriptures say?! Are we willing to do the same? If we are to be true Christ-followers, I think we need to think about how events such as same-sex marriage can only spur us on to stand up for what we believe in, even in the midst of difficult times. We hate to be uncomfortable. But isn’t that what Christianity is about? Standing up for Christ and His views, even if it makes us uncomfortable?

I am not offering any solutions. I am just offering thoughts. I do not want my Christianity to waiver because of decisions made out of my control. I believe GOD is in control and is sovereign, even over decisions I don’t agree with. What separates Christianity from other religions is that it is a relationship – no one can steal my relationship with God. Does that not just give you chills?

Christ has called us to love. Love no matter what. That is what He did for us. I think this is still vital despite all of the issues going on in the world. (Though I suppose the subject of love creates a whole stirring in and of itself). But God says to love one another. I think that is important to remember.

Again, I am not offering any solutions. I am just sharing with you some thoughts that have been going through my head. I want my relationship with God to only GROW in the difficult times – when my faith gets tested. Not run from it. In saying what I have, I know I have not hit on everything that could be talked about. I didn’t intend to hit on everything. I just wanted to share some of my thoughts and I hope that is the way you take it.

Thanks for listening.