More Than An "IAN"!

What is an "ian"? By itself, I am really not certain. An "ian" by itself does not really amount to much. Its significance arises from that to which it is attached. The greatest significance of our life is through being a genuine CHRIST kind of "ian"; a CHRIST-ian! The suffix "ian" indicates BELONGING TO CHRIST, being OF CHRIST, being INVOLVED WITH CHRIST, and being LIKE CHRIST. Therefore being a Christian brings great blessing to our life and has the potential of blessing those around us, but it still really all about CHRIST!

Someone has noted, "A Christian is a mind through which Christ thinks, a heart through which Christ loves, a voice through which Christ speaks, and a hand though which Christ helps." [original source unknown] Without that CHRIST CONNECTION what are we? How can we be known as a Christian unless were are truly IDENTIFIED WITH CHRIST.

We need to remember how Jesus defined discipleship.
"And he said to all, 'If anyone would come after me, let him DENY HIMSELF AND TAKE UP HIS CROSS DAILY AND FOLLOW ME.'" ( Luke 9:23 ESV)

When we became a Christian, we died to sin in order to live to God in Christ. ( Romans 6:11) This was through the death, burial, and resurrection pictured in baptism. ( Romans 6:3-4) As the Lord's disciples (followers and learners) we are to have surrendered our life to take on His. This allows CHRIST to do His great work in and through us. May that focus be maintained so as to allow our Lord to use us in glorious ways to His praise and glory.

Have a great day LIVING AS A CONDUIT OF CHRIST!
Carl

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