Living The Almost But Not Quite Christian Life

All the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen… —2 Corinthians 1:20

 “Jesus’ parable of the talents recorded in Matthew 25:14-30 was a warning that it is possible for us to misjudge our capacities. This parable has nothing to do with natural gifts and abilities but relates to the gift of the Holy Spirit as He was first given at Pentecost. We must never measure our spiritual capacity on the basis of our education or our intellect; our capacity in spiritual things is measured on the basis of the promises of God. If we get less than God wants us to have, we will falsely accuse Him as the servant falsely accused his master when he said, “You expect more of me than you gave me the power to do. You demand too much of me, and I cannot stand true to you here where you have placed me.” When it is a question of God’s Almighty Spirit, never say, “I can’t.” Never allow the limitation of your own natural ability to enter into the matter. If we have received the Holy Spirit, God expects the work of the Holy Spirit to be exhibited in us.” - Oswald Chambers, My Utmost For His Highest 

Do you ever feel like living the Christian life is too difficult?  It may not be for some people, but God expects too much of you.  Maybe you have given up trying and are content with living a life of partial obedience? No one knows you have settled for less. Well, except for you and God that is.  Here's the deal.  What the God demands of you is impossible for you to live by self-effort.  But don’t think there is no hope for you.  Don’t resolve yourself to a life of “almost but not quite”. 

 I am not suggesting that you will live a sin free life.  You will not be perfected until you are with Jesus, .. in heaven .. or in the air. But you can live a life confident of who you are in Christ all the while aware, actually reminded every day, of who you were and what your personal limitations are.  Who you were is not who you are and who you are is not who you are going to be. You must keep that focus.  Keep a clean heart by taking your sins to the Lord (1 John 1:9) every day.  Living the Christian life is impossible if you think you can do it on your own. Living the Christian life is a joy if you live it in the power of the Holy Spirit, knowing that you can do all things through Christ who gives you strength (Philippians 4:13).

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