We Are Validated Through Christ

“One day I hope my children will be judged not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” ~ MLK Jr.

The world has seemed especially dark this week for many. Our lives have been “flipped turned upside down,” in the words of the Fresh Prince. Nationally and even personally, this week has been one unexpected thing after another and filled with havoc. It’s been a long week. I’m not writing this devotion to take sides or be political, because I think everyone can find plenty of that elsewhere. Instead, I want to take a few minutes to speak some life into your day.

In a day where people don’t feel validated enough and unheard, it is important that Christians stand up and let people know that they are enough in Jesus’ sight. Here’s a truncated list of some of the things God has done to show you He loves you:

• He sent Jesus to die for us (Romans 5:8.)
• He felt every pain and sorrow you do (Isaiah 53:3-5.)
• He keeps your tears in a bottle. (Psalm 56:8.)
• He hears your prayers, even the ones where you don’t have the words to say (Psalm 139:1-4.)
• He knew you before you were born (Jeremiah 1:5.)
• He draws us to Himself (John 12:32-33.)
• He gave you unique talents and abilities to serve Him (1 Peter 4:10-11.)
• He protects us (Psalm 34:7.)

I once heard a preacher say that you must treat people’s perceptions as a reality. It’s the reality they live. Practicing this is necessary in understanding who they are as a person, where they come from, and the best way to begin building a relationship with them. From this place of knowledge and familiarity, you can witness to them and tell them the gospel. People are more apt to listen to those they trust, so don’t underestimate the power of building rapport with people. I’m not saying that you have to subscribe to their worldview, but if you understand its roots, then you can be better equipped to give every man an answer when he asks you about your faith (1 Peter 3:15.)

This principle applies to Christians and non-Christians alike. However, we must be careful that our actions are not misconstrued or misinterpreted to be something they are not. We shouldn’t approach these situations defensively or with an intention to tear down; we should take a stance of asking to understand. We should always strive to have not even our enemies saying anything evil against us (Proverbs 16:7.) Don’t let any man have ought against you & try to live in peace with others (Romans 12:18.)

Lets look at a biblical example. David was trying to do something helpful, but other people mistook his actions for being mischievous and caused his men harm (1 Chron 19:1-5.) In a society where everyone is so easily offended, it’s important to make your intentions clear by showing others that you have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16.) I think we can all be more like David in being kind to those we can show kindness to. This kindness can be the start of a rapport with someone, as discussed earlier. With the world being as dark as it has been this week, it is more important now than ever for us to be the lights we are called to be (Matthew 5:16.)