I’m a Good Person
I became a Christian in my early 30s. Before that, I occasionally went to church, had never read nor owned a Bible, and did pretty much whatever I wanted (as long as I respected my moral values and met my family’s behavior standards).
I was told that as long as I didn’t hurt anyone or steal from others, I was living a good life. I can even say that little white lies and sarcasm were not only accepted, they were encouraged among family and friends.
The jokes between us about our body types, the way we dressed, or our flaws were just normal, playful behavior. Having no restrictions on television or music choices, or where I went for fun, I grew up thinking I surely had the coolest parents and the happiest teenage years.
For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. (1 Peter 4:3 NIV)
Did that sound harsh to you? I know it did to me the first couple of times I read it. I defended myself against God’s Word in this passage many times, thinking, I am not that bad. I’m good. Not only that, but I kept justifying myself and making excuses. I didn’t want to feel judged, and I didn’t want to change my behavior. I don’t know about you, but I strongly believe when God starts the refining work in our lives, it can get a little challenging.
In my experience, the path to righteousness takes time and intention to walk. It begins with awareness, then it goes to conviction, then to practice. It only happens with God’s mercy and grace. I keep veering off, and it is a lot easier to allow the enemy to put guilt and defeat in our heads and hearts than give it to the Lord and try again. Thankfully, God is the only one who truly is good. He is full of mercy, grace, and love. He brings others alongside to help us get back up.
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8)
I now rely on an intimate group of sisters in Christ, my family, and God’s Word to remind me of the love God has for me. And I persevere.
Following Christ has led me to make radical changes in my life. I have been criticized, made fun of, judged, and even lost family and friend relationships because of my now Christ-like behavior. God has not only made up for those losses, He has blessed me!
If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. (1 Peter 4:14)
Friend, following Christ is not easy, but this is the “good life!” Believe me, I have tasted the other “good” kind. Thanks to God’s Word, I am learning what being and doing good really means. I invite you to seek Him and commit to Him. Allow Him to change your life for good!
So, then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good. (1 Peter 4:19)
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Scripture is quoted from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
