Thursday, March 01, 2007

The Bullet of Witness: Walk, Talk and Time

How does one spot a real Christian? The only way to authentically evaluate a person’s talk and walk is to watch it over a period of time. I’m not talking about days but months and years.

Anyone can fake his actions for a little while! Anyone can talk big in the brevity of the untested moment! But only the real Christian can put his talk and walk together over a period of years!

Real Christianity is not a sprint but a long distance run! Faith is not real unless it lasts. Even the most sincere, dedicated and earnest Christian doesn’t become perfect overnight. Time is necessary to learn the inescapable fact that faith is not a temporary crutch but a life-long relationship.

It takes years to grow a great and noble life. Experience comes only with time. Quality isn’t instantaneous. We shouldn’t be surprised or discouraged by the temporary failures of those who claim to be Christians. Give them the benefit of the doubt! Love them! Encourage them! But before you decide if they are real Christians – give it some time! Lots of time!

Real Christians, sooner or later, get their talk and walk together. They will rise to the top. When they do, it will be worth the wait!

A popular wine producer once boasted that, “they will serve no wine before its time.” With due reverence, let me suggest, that God has the same idea! He is growing some real Christians! It’s our own fault if we insist on “tasting” His workmanship before He says it’s ready!

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