What Shape Are You In?

Scripture: "Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ." (Ephesians 4:14-15)

A few years ago, a good friend of mine was in a spiritual crisis. Very solemnly, I was asked, "If I were to leave church (turn away from God), would you still be my friend?"

I burst into tears. No. Really. I did.

This person had walked closely with God for several years, served in several different ministries in church and witnessed amazing answers to many prayers.

I'm glad to say they never did walk away. They successfully worked through their crisis. We're still friends. And they are close to God as ever.

But why my dramatic reaction, you may wonder.

Because I realized that if my friend walked away from God, they would not be the same person I came to know and befriend. The act of turning away from God would definitely change their countenance, personality, outlook on life ... well ... everything. I couldn't handle the idea. For me, there was very important common ground upon which our friendship had been built in the first place. Taking God out of the equation would have pulled the rug out from under both of us.

Several years down the road now, I still think about that moment, and the realization that those of us who are believers .. are the people we are because of Christ in us. He shines His light through us. He shows others who He is through our actions and words. He fills us up in a way we are able to pour out upon others His grace and compassion. Without Him - well, look around at mainstream America. What a sorry lot we would be; lacking in morals, values, compassion for our fellow man, unable to empathize with others or give freely of ourselves without asking for anything in return.

Our relationship with Christ runs deeper than most people realize. He shapes us, molds us, makes us more like Him. Without Him in our lives .. who do you think we would be more like? I shudder to think.

Most people don't realize the act of being a Christian is a verb, not merely a description. Daily, we give ourselves to God - to lead us through the day, make the right decisions, steer clear of temptation. Being in the world day in and day out is like being in a spiritual gym. The only time we get to rest is when we sleep!

But thank God for His presence in our lives. Thank God He does lead, guide, protect, answer prayers, heal and teach ... to name only a few things He does on a daily basis for us all!

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for being in our lives. Thank You, Lord, for guiding our steps and catching us when we fall. For Your unconditional love. For shaping us into the men and women You always meant for us to become. Thank You, Lord, for my every breath!

Prayer request: For anyone who is struggling in their walk. To hang in there. Keep holding onto God. He will pull you through whatever circumstance you find yourself in.