The Dimmer Switch of Faith

A little while back, my wife and I watched a film titled "Not A Fan". The film was written by Pastor Kyle Idleman, produced by City On A Hill Studios and spoke to me in a few different ways. I would certainly recommend this film.

As Pastor Idleman narrates, he offers up an apology. It was something I never even thought about, nor thought I would hear from a Pastor. Basically, he apologized to anyone who he had presented Christ to ... not for offering the path to salvation, but the presentation itself.

Often times, we talk about the glory of salvation, eternity, mansions in the clouds, heaven; you know, all of the good things that would attract the potential "buyer".

While these things are true and certainly good, the truth is the day we accept Christ is the day we also choose death. Yes, I said it ... death. Now isn't that something you're in a hurry to sign up for?

Don't tune out yet, here's the truth. Once we accept Christ, we are supposed to die to ourselves.

Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Luke 9:23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.

Mark 8:35 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it.

The truth? Accepting Christ has forever changed my life, and it will forever change yours too...

there's no light switch affect - but more like the effect of a dimmer switch. 




You're still you. Your life is still your life. Your problems, struggles, burdens; still yours - but with continued obedience the light gradually gets brighter and brighter as you begin to transform.

Check out this song by the Casting Crowns.
http://vimeo.com/7474108

It's transformation time. Time for renewal.

Romans 12:2 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.

2 Corinthians 4:16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.

Same flesh - different perspective.

Perfection doesn't exist on this side of eternity.

Let me be a little transparent. 

Since accepting Christ, my life has certainly gotten better ... but it is most definitely not without its share of struggles, trials and tribulations. The Lord has blessed me with so much, but I am still a flesh being living a midst a fallen planet. My weak areas that existed before accepting Christ are the very same areas that are frequently attacked by the adversary.

Hebrews 12
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, ² fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. ³ Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Surround yourself with those who can lift you up and encourage you. Check out The E League for starters. Know that in this world you will have trouble (John 16:33), but if you keep your eyes on Jesus rather than hanging your head; you shall overcome.

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Next blog entry: Employed by the Lord. I'll take you on a personal journey through the joys of unemployment and how God grows us through difficult circumstances. Thankfully, God's employment is permanent - and full-time.

For His Glory