THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus
Thursday, December 14, 2023

Lord, once it’s known we are a Christ follower, people watch us. For celebrity believers always in the spotlight, they are scrutinized mercilessly. Just one little mistake, one little slip-up and a believer could be slammed as a hypocrite and land them in an unwanted segment on TMZ. Recently on national TV, some outspoken believers have been seen having meltdowns, and the critics jumped in on them with both feet. Where do these critics get the idea Christ followers are perfect? Surprise! We are still human.

For all believers, no finger pointing. We all have, or will have, meltdowns. Based on the principle of Christ’s grace found in John 8:1–12, we can surmise “let those humans who have never had a meltdown be the first to appear on the Dr. Phil show.” Thank you, God, for giving grace when we act human. As only you can, use our embarrassing situations to bring good to your kingdom.

By your grace and your Spirit, Lord, may we present a true and respectable lifestyle of how a Christ follower should live. Yes, we have those who are constantly watching us. According to Hebrews 12:1, because we have a gallery of heavenly saints watching down from Heaven, cheering us on as we go through this life, help us “strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”

Today, someone who is searching for purpose and meaning may be watching me. I pray my Christlike influence makes an impact and causes them to seek and find you. May they find fulfillment in a new life with you, Jesus. Amen.