Be a Stand-out Believer
July 24, 2021 by Carin LeRoy
Filed under Daily Devotions, Life Topics
Carin LeRoy –
While in a college, I had a friend that caused a stir every time she would sneeze. Rather than let loose like the rest of us with a big hearty “Ah-Choo,” she’d suppress hers so that it stopped before it made it past her lips. All you’d hear was a squeaky sound cut short in the back of her throat. We’d all stop and take notice when my friend would sneeze. I worried she was going to burst some blood vessel in her head, but she assured us everything was fine.
Sometimes people just stand out. Have you ever been in the room with someone with a recognizable laugh? You’d know the laugh anywhere and with your eyes closed. How about the guy driving the new sports car? I’ve seen the males in my family stop and take a second look as they drive by. We’ve all run into people that grab our attention.
As Christians, we should be someone who people notice, too. But rather than being drawn to our unusual sneeze, recognizable laugh or new sports car, they should be drawn to our actions and spirit. If we demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit, people should see love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5). Instead of reacting with impatience, we respond with politeness. Rather than rudeness, we show kindness. Love, gentleness and faith in God are evident as we interact with others.
Who stood out in the crowd more than Noah? In Genesis 6, God describes the people during Noah’s day as “every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time.” Wickedness ruled the earth. “But Noah found favor in the sight of the Lord.” Noah stood out to God as a blameless and righteous contemporary of his day. I’m sure others noticed he didn’t live the life they did.
How does God see us? What is noticeable to others when they encounter us? Let’s be that person that is “different” in a good way. Our actions and attitude cause other to be drawn to the Christ-like spirit that our lives display. Not only will we stand out in a crowd, but we will gain God’s favor.
PRAYER: Lord, help me to be the person that lives a consistent and exemplary life before others. Help my attitude and actions to reflect who You are, and help my life to be an example to those who do not know You.
“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5: 14-16 NIV).
Today's devotional is by Carin LeRoy, wife to Dale and mother of three grown children and one almost-grown teenager. She has been a missionary with Pioneers since 1982. Her passions are family, missions, piano, and writing to challenge others to live faithful lives for God.