Over the last two decades, Christian living has progressed quite a bit. Being a good Christian was dictated by tithing, prayer, attending church and abiding by the teachings in small groups and sermons. However, Christian life has evolved into a much more three-dimensional module – an individual’s relationship with Jesus Christ is identified with several lifestyle elements. From charity to speaking up for others who do not have a voice, Christianity and the supporting beliefs are much more inclusive than earlier years.
Ultimately, the ongoing question of ‘what does it mean to be a good Christian’ doesn’t have a definitive answer. If you’re unable to check off all the boxes, that doesn’t mean you’re guilty of sin or alter your relationship with the Lord. However, using the identified characteristics can serve as inspiration and a great measure of Christian ideals.
Pray Regularly
Prayer creates and establishes your relationship with the Lord. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." Whether you’re asking for advice, forgiveness, guidance, or looking for daily connection with your Savior, prayer is the best outlet.
Know the Bible
How can you agree to a Christian life and embrace Christian living, if you’re not educated on what you’re following? So many people get caught up with the Sunday service ritual. They go to church, worship for an hour and then live the rest of their week as if Christianity is only a Sunday thing. Take the time to read the Bible. Join a Bible study group at your church or seek out online resources to reinforce your Christian life throughout the week.
Matthew 24:35 says, “Heaven and earth shall pass away but My words shall not pass away.” The Bible should be your daily reference for the good and bad times. Christians cannot live for Christ if they don’t know the Bible.
Jesus Christ is Number One
Nothing should come before your Christian faith and Jesus Christ. You would not be here if it wasn’t for the sacrifices he made. Making Jesus your priority means you let go of control and place it in His hands. Everything that happens, in your life, is part of God’s plan. Have faith that he knows what he’s doing. Initially, situations may not make sense, but it will eventually. You must have faith.
Do Good
There are so many ways you can participate in charity. Volunteer at a retirement facility, pick up trash within your community, hold the door open for someone, smile, talk to a stranger, give someone a compliment, show up for someone, be thoughtful, or donate food to a local shelter. Christian living isn’t dictated by how grand your gesture is. Always look for ways you can contribute to the world and make it a better place. Remember, no gesture is too big or small.
Be Humble
Sometimes, Christians come off as arrogant and this displays a faith competition to others who are not Christians. Living for Christ means loving everyone equally and not boosting. Stay humble and remember your Savior is responsible for everything. 1 Peter 5: 6-7 says, “Humble yourselves, then, under God’s might hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.”
Tithing and the general rules can be somewhat blurry. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.” Giving generously will better the lives of those who are less fortunate.
It’s important to remember that giving isn’t always writing a check or putting money in the offering basket. Giving means pledging your time to help others through volunteering efforts. Giving can mean donating your gently used items to a shelter or someone in true need. Giving can be a Christian using your talents to help the church or an organization.
Be Creative
Creativity is usually derived from curiosity. It’s important to reinvent your Christian life because Christianity, as a whole, has progressively changed throughout history. Designating a creative time will allow a Christian to destress, view elements/topics from a different perspective with a ‘fresh’ mindset, reevaluate the importance of elements within a day-to-day agenda, and learn and establish new ways to connect to God.
Reflect
Reflection is a big part of Christian living. There are so many instances when Christians pray for something, receive it, and then that deliverance is forgotten. Reflecting on life via prayer, small group discussions, journaling, conversations with friends and family, or having down time as individuals can be very beneficial.
It is important to reflect often. Christians who look back and evaluate their blessings and unanswered prayers will have a better understanding on their path – and destiny. Moreover, if an individual incorporates reflection into their frequent happenings then they’ll be way more likely to remember everything good and bad that’s occurred. It relatively easy to forget.
