Christianity is Not an Accessory

Christianity is Not an Accessory

By: JL Ryan August 26, 2009

There are those who consider themselves Christians, but are actually using “religion” as an accessory–a way to make them look better on the outside. They have no true relationship with God or His people. No power or victory. Repentance or transformation. No passion. No renewal. Like stagnant waters, they neither receive the love of God, nor give it to others. Sure, they may attend a church service–but that’s it. They won’t let God inside. It’s like garnishing a necklace once a week for show, and stowing it away for real life.

All the while we have a loving Heavenly Father, with a heart aching to spend time with these, His wayward children! If they only knew what He has for them! And perhaps they don’t. Perhaps they need someone to tell them. If this is you, let me testify personally of the goodness of God. He is so much more than an accessory! He is worthy of everything. Everything you have. Every day. Every minute. Every second. He is worthy.

God loves us so much! He does. Each and every one of us miraculously are the “apple of His eye.” (Ps 17:8) All He asks is that we give ourselves over to Him. He does this for our own good. It is only when we seek Him with our whole hearts, that we can see Him for who He really is and experience all that He’s promised. Peace, prosperity, favor, blessing, renewal, transformation, adoption, eternal life. Just to name a few! These things are not available to us unless we get serious and seek Him with our whole hearts.

As true Christians, we’re not called to put on airs, but to lay things down. Our lives. Our burdens. Our cares. It’s not about looking better, but humbling ourselves, admitting our need of Him. In exchange God–by His Spirit, adorns us for our journey. Beauty for ashes. (Is 61:3) Joy for mourning. A crown. The helmet of salvation, the sword of the spirit and the shield of faith. (Eph 6:10-18) The paradox is this: In giving up our way of living, we gain life more abundantly.

Brothers and sisters, God sent me to tell you. He loves you with an everlasting love. There is nothing on earth that you’ve done that will keep Him from loving you. No matter where you’ve been, He still wants you to know Him. Give your life to Him. Not just a sliver of you–but ALL of you. Give Him yourself every day. Every morning you wake up, lay your life down at His beautiful feet. Receive His great exchange. He will crown you with His tender mercies, and your children, and your children’s children. Nothing, oh nothing can compare.