Christian Casualty!

The word "casual" is defined as: [1] subject to, resulting from, or occurring by chance; [2] occurring without regularity (occasional); [3] feeling or showing little concern (nonchalant)" [source: Webster's Seventh New Collegiate Dictionary, © 1972]

Does any of that match up well with what the Scriptures address as our Christian walk? Would "casual Christian" not be a misnomer (unsuitable combination of terms)? To approach our Christianity without due respect for God and the authority of His word and giving SERIOUS CONSIDERATION to how we live, would be to suffer the spiritual "casualty" (defined as serious or fatal accident as in the sense of a disaster) of drifting away and ultimately being separated from God. We must retain a reverential fear of God as we recognize our accountability to Him since "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." ( Hebrews 10:31 ESV) We don't want to fall into His hands, but rather LIVE IN HIS HANDS.

Though we are cleansed and saved by the blood of Christ, we still must be mindful of maintaining a proper relationship with God. Our Christianity is not to be casual, but SERIOUS! Rather than approaching God in a flippant manner, we are to approach Him reverently, even though in Christ we can approach the throne of grace with confidence. (note Hebrews 4:16)

In Paul's letter to the church at Philippi, he exhorted. . .
"(12) Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION WITH FEAR AND TREMBLING, (13) for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure." ( Philippians 2:12-13 ESV)

That is far from casual. That seems more critical to a proper manner of living. That is to acknowledge a real power with which to reckon.

Recently while singing that grand hymn "Amazing Grace" (John Newton, 1779), I was struck by the second stanza which begins, " 'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, And grace my fears relieved". God's grace both instills and relieves a sense of fear. How? The grace of God reminds me of how much I am in need of it. My sins separated me from God and without His grace I would be lost. I must therefore recognize the sinfulness of sin so that I do not relapse into it again. It is a fearful thing to recognize where my sins have and can place me and the position and power of God to righteously judge and condemn me as a sinner. However, His grace also soothes those fears because He is faithful and just to forgive. ( 1 John 1:9) It is truly "Amazing Grace" because it is far from what I truly deserve! Therefore I can experience a real fear relating to where I would be without it and have my fears calmed because of the reality God has extended it to me. May He be sincerely reverenced and praised!

Let us not be a casualty of taking God and our Christianity casually. Maintaining a proper reverential fear for God prompts us to give Him the honor He is due. It also draws us closer to Him in a way that allows God to continue His great work in and through us. May we LIVE IN HIS HANDS for His good pleasure!

Have a great day BEING RESPECTFULLY GOD'S GENUINE CHILD!
Carl

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