“If the Son therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.” (John 8:36 KJV)
I knew Richard before he surrendered his life to Christ. I hadn’t seen him since then, seven years ago. Then we ran into each other last week, and he said something that really stuck with me.
He said, “I’ve never been so happy in my own skin, as I am since I became a Christian. I never thought it possible that I could become the man I am today.”
That’s quite a testimony of the power of God, but also of another glorious fact. In Christ we are not pressed into a cookie-cutter mold, where we are all the same bland persons. I am to be like Christ in Character. He is my perfect model to which I’m to conform, and from which I recognize my dependence on God’s Grace. Once unshackled, by Jesus, from the iron grip of sin, we are then free to be ourselves, in Christ.
Creation shouts the idea, that God loves diversity, color and flavor. I considered the distinct difference in each of our strands of DNA; no two people have the exact same pattern. Even twins have slightly different variations.
Within the wide parameters of God’s grace is found; supernatural peace, joy unspeakable, and direction. We find purpose for our lives, and love. Freedom to experience life in all of its fullness comes through surrender to Christ. Consequently, I’ve discovered all those things I previously felt the need to hold onto, those things of the flesh that fooled me into thinking they somehow brought happiness or comfort, and those things that seemed fun, were only a cheap imitation of the life God intended for me from the start. In Christ, is found goodness and wholesome vitality; life in it its pure form, created by God for our benefit and enjoyment. Surprisingly, once we conform to Christ’s pattern of godly living, we find it liberating, rather than confining or restrictive.
The Lord calls His children to become the best individuals possible, unique, creative and productive. And when we combine our distinctive talents and exclusive personalities with the body of Christ, we all together become, synergistically, a juggernaut: a wonderfully positive force, bringing light and joy to the world.
I’m happy to be free in Christ to become the best me possible. It’s exciting to see God working in many of my friends as well, creating good, fascinating and loving people, who are each different.
We praise you Lord, for the colorful variety of personalities within your children. May each of our distinctive differences shine, while emulating the character and virtues of Jesus. Father, your thoughts are endless and vast. Praise you for your creative genius and diversity. And thank you for the peace you give, as we eagerly anticipate greater joys ahead in your presence, amen.
Sheldon K Bass
IndianapolisIndiana

