Core Values Of Christianity

 Integrity First. Service Before Self. Excellence in all we do. Sound Biblical? Like that should be on a plaque in a church. Actually, those are the core values of the United States Airforce. I worked for a government contractor and as an Air Force civilian for a time doing IT work. In the contractor business office, there were posters on the wall citing those values. For integrity was a picture of an American Bald Eagle with the words "Integrity First" at the bottom of the poster. The big boss from headquarters was visiting and talking to me about the work we were doing. I pointed casually at the poster and asked, "Do we really mean that? Or do we just like pictures of Eagles?" I don't think he was sure how to respond. And I am pretty sure he got my point. I have a penchant for asking questions that people don't want to answer. Call it a gift.

But I could ask the same question of Christians. We agree with the idea of loving God with our whole hearts - having integrity - meaning without blemish, flaw or division. Living that out can be and most likely is a challenge for all of us. Our challenge is that we all live with the tension between the spirit and the flesh. We are called to live a sanctified life. Pure and holy before God.

Putting others before ourselves is another one. John 15:13. Jesus said, "No greater love has one [person] than this, but to lay down their life for their friends [or others]. That is an indirect reference to the second greatest commandment. Love God first and others next - we are further down the list! So often we choose to look after ourselves and then we can look to the needs of others.

"And He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all." -  Mark 9:35

Have you ever heard the term, "It is good enough for government work?" If not - it essentially means that it doesn't have to be your best effort, just good enough. I went to a yearlong school when I was in the Army and the grade everyone strived for was what we called the "Leavenworth B". We were all high achievers, but it was all right if we coasted a bit. 

"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." - Colossians 3:23-24

Living and serving for an audience of One. We should be offering God our best, not just offering the leftovers, if there are any. 

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