More Than A Passing Grade

I often have men (and some women) say to me, “Ken, I am trying to be a better Christian, but I keep failing. What do I need to do?”

I respond by saying, “That is exactly what you are doing wrong…trying to be a better Christian.” Trying to improve as a Christ-follower by our own efforts is like going on a short-term diet. We see some instant results, it feels good for a while, but we soon run out of energy and return to our old eating habits, only to watch the yoyo effect take place. All of the weight we lost comes right back on (and sometimes more).

Following Jesus is not about trying harder, it is about surrendering and submitting to the power of the Holy Spirit in us.  As Pastor Jared pointed out in this week’s message, the nine Fruits of the Spirit are not a measuring stick in which to grade ourselves, but what behavior looks like when the Spirit of God is in us. It is our natural state when we are part of the Kingdom of God.

Trying harder leads to failure, followed by discouragement and ultimately giving up. Surrendering to God and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in and through us results in more than a passing grade; it moves us toward perfection.

How do we accomplish this? The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 12:1-2,

1 “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

As Pastor Jared said, the seeds are already there, but each needs to be cultivated within us. We have so much potential, but not by our own doing.

Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice to God and watch the transformation take place. You will grow from a simple acorn into a mighty Oak tree.

Pastor Ken

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