WYSIWYG

"Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." - Matthew 5:15-16

"Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life." - Philippians 2:15-16

What You See Is What You Get. That is what WYSIWYG (pronounced wiz -ee - wig) refers to. The term originated in the 1970's and, as far as I know, has mostly fallen out of use. Until now! :) It referred to a type of editing software (pre-dating Microsoft Office) that allowed users to see and edit content in a form that appeared as it would when displayed on an interface, webpage, slide presentation or printed document. 

In a similar way, when people see us - what we say and what we do, it "should be" WYSIWYG. Who we say we are as Christians is who we are in life. Our lives should be an exact reflection of the Word of God. Lives that point people to Jesus. 

"For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers" - Romans 8:29

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." - Romans 12:2

When we are born again, God begins to conform us - shaping us into the image of Jesus. How? Through life experiences, the Word of God and the Spirit at work in us.  People "should" be able to look at our lives, what we say and do, and then look at the Bible and say "Yep - they are Christians - followers of Jesus Christ". 

Be careful that you don't make excuses for the areas where you fall short. That you convince yourself that you can never be perfect so it is OK if there is some level of acceptability of some sins in your life. I mean nobody is perfect, right? The Spirit of God will convict you of your sin. at that very moment, you can either yield to the Spirit or you can resist or quench the influence of the Spirit in your life. 

For what I am sharing to matter is your choice. I can encourage you to consider your spiritual walk (who you actually are) and match it to your spiritual talk (who you tell people your are). But you must decide if you are content with where you are in your relationship with the Lord or if you want to press on and draw closer to God. I am not suggesting you dress in a robe and sandals and stand on a street corner with a sign that says "The End is Near! Repent or Burn" You can wear tennis shoes if you like! :) Just kidding!  Love God and Love Others. Start with that.

Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory.

By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone