Life should reflect beliefs

In this day and age, some may find they can become easily persuaded to follow others opinions or the popular ideas that permeate our society.

There are followers and there are leaders.

Leaders are to be the representatives of the one who sends them and set the pace and pattern for others to follow.

Their belief system, although tested, must remain exact.

An example of a Christian must be one of living out our beliefs, principles and evidence a continued commitment to Christ.

It must be the authenticity of a relationship with him; a heart and life choice based on a personal and unwavering decision.

Christ and the cross is not simply a symbol of something we hang around our neck but represents the ultimate and absolute price paid for our sins by a holy and loving God.

In Mark 8:27-29, the Bible relates a conversation that takes place between Jesus and his disciples. “Jesus went out, along with His disciples, to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way He questioned His disciples, saying to them, “Who do people say that I am?” They told Him, saying, “John the Baptist; and others say Elijah; but others, one of the prophets.” And He continued by questioning them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered and said to Him, “You are the Christ.” Peter recognized his savior, walking among men.

Before Jesus asked the question, he already knew the pubic opinion and talk around town.

Everyone has a personal view concerning life’s issues.

It was true then and it remains true today.

For those walking close to Christ and with him, it was imperative that they knew him and who he was, why he came and what he could do for their lives.

Were they ones who would be influenced by the multitude of town talk or were they convinced within themselves that he was the Christ? After all, he was entrusting them with the message and commissioning them as ambassadors to this world.

This same question is posed to us today.

What do we have to say concerning Christ?

A portion of Scripture in which Paul wrote, is in Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.”

With society experiencing lower standards of convictions, personal and family struggles as never before and financial and moral decay, our stand and confidence in the Lord must remain unshaken.

The Bible tells us that everything that can be shaken will be shaken.

So ours is not to fear but to continue to trust.

Those who trust their God, and believe his word will see him undertake on their behalf no matter what the situation.

Jesus asks us today, “Who do you say that I am?”

Our answer must be the same as Peter, “Thou art the Christ.”

Let us stand up for what we know is required of us as followers of Christ.

We are the recipients of his grace and power.

This provision is more than enough to provide us with the strength and stability of convictions to be a witness to the wonderful truth of the Gospel.

No matter where life takes us, God is with us.

Our nation, one nation under God has provided us with the benefit of freedom of speech and religion.

This freedom allows for our expression of belief, openly and without fear.

Today it is ours, we are not promised tomorrow.

While this day is still afforded to us, Christian, let’s use every opportunity to allow our “light” to shine before men, glorifying God who paid the supreme price.

Together, let us fulfill our call.

Patty Scahill of Austintown, who is a conference speaker, author and hospice chaplain, attends Christian Life Church in Canfield.