Being Consistent

"Churches are full of hypocrites!"  One of the most common reasons given for people not attending. As a church goer, I would have to agree somewhat. While not EVERY person displays hypocrisy openly and adamantly, there are many who are there for the wrong reasons. I believe some Christians have fooled themselves into thinking that being a hypocrite is JUST being good at church and not outside of church. I truly think it goes a little deeper. Some of the greatest acts of hypocrisy are demonstrated INSIDE of the church itself. We criticize each other, complain about everything, and wage war on anyone who disagrees with our opinions. When did it become about us??

I don't think that every church in the world has reached the bottom, and I'm not saying that my church is beyond hope; yet christians and believers as a whole seem to have become so selfish and have placed the importance on themselves rather than God. When I stop and think about it, many of the problems that churches face are just acts of selfishness and inconsistency. People are offended by guitars and drums in church, yet listen to whatever they want in their homes. Is it just me, or does that not make any sense?? Some Christians state that the KJV is the only version of the Bible that should be used, yet they "amen" when a missionary translates the word into an unknown language. If we are going to be opinionated and judge others, we should make sure we are living above reproach.

It seems that so many people have become wrapped up in the rules and regulations that they have missed the whole point-GOD! Our purpose, as Christians, is not to rally everyone up to agree with our personal views, but to win souls for Christ and to live for HIS glory. I am a firm believer that in order to pray for someone else to act a certain way, I should first pray for MYSELF to demonstrate those changes. For this reason, I have begun praying that God would make ME more consistent. It can start with one. I pray that he would use me, and keep me faithful.

I never want to reach a point where I am more focused on myself and my opinions than serving the Lord.

"Now fear the Lord and serve Him with all faithfulness..."  Joshua 24:14a