Written by Pastor Jack Wellman– William Temple
Devotional: 3 Small Habits Christians Can Adopt That Make the World Better
Grace is what separates Christians from everyone else. We don’t get our value based on what we deserve or what we earned. God values us based on His love. We don’t have to work for this love. He extends it freely. In fact, even when we were still His enemy, steeped in sin, He gave Jesus Christ so that through Jesus’ death and resurrection, we can be reconciled to Him. Jesus’ life, ministry, and death was a free gift to us. God didn’t have to do it, but He did it anyway.
The fact that we’re still here is a testament to God’s grace. His grace is everywhere and if we are to call ourselves true Christians we have to share His grace to everyone equally. Here are just three small habits you can adopt that can make the world a better place. How? These practices spread God’s grace further and wider, one person at a time.
Always Make It a Point to Hear the Other Side of the Story
If you ever find yourself in an argument between friends or find yourself in a disagreement with someone, take a break. Don’t go down the slippery slope of simply saying your piece and trying to ‘win’ the argument by sticking to your guns.
Instead, give them the time and space to share their side of the story. In fact, you should go even one step further. Step into their shoes. Look at the situation from their perspective. Empathy and compassion are gifts of grace and you can tap into them if you want to. God has given you this ability.
Always Remember You’re a Sinner Before You Open Your Mouth
If you see something that rubs you the wrong way or if you see that someone is ‘obviously wrong’ or screwing up, remember that words can kill as well as heal. The wrong words can hurt and can even kill friendships or relationships.
Before you open your mouth, always go back to that fundamental truth that any grace-filled and grace-seeking Christian appreciates, understands, and celebrates: we are all sinners. Going back to this truth keeps you humble. It grounds whatever you will say in a spirit of love and healing instead of dominance, conquest, or judgment.
Understand That Your Actions Reflect God’s Presence in Your Life
You might not feel you’re actively witnessing for the Word but, make no mistake about it, the moment people around you know that you’re a Christian, you are the embodiment of the Word for them. Remember this. Understand that your actions speak louder than your words and that your actions might be the only Bible the people around you would ‘read.’ Be careful of the actions you show. Lead them to Christ instead of away from Him.
Closing thoughts
Grace sustains Christians. In fact, it defines us. Adopt the three habits outlined above so you can be a better gateway of God’s grace, healing, and understanding to a world in desperate need of these. Do your part starting today!
