10.02.12 - Verse of the Day

So today during my devotions a certain verse popped out at me, and I'm sure you know what I'm talking about when I say it popped out at me. It was Isaiah 8:18.

"Here am I, and the children the Lord has given me. We are signs and symbols in Israel from the Lord Almighty, who dwells on Mount Zion."

I just thought this verse was cool because it says that the children of Isaiah or the speaker are signs and symbols to Israel from the Lord. And I think this verse applies to us today because we are the 'symbols' or representations of Christ in this society.  Even if you haven't accepted Christ, he still made you in his image so you are still representing God by being his handiwork, and for those who have accepted Christ into your heart you are to be an example to those around you in the way you act and make decisions. Every second you have lived being saved, is being watched for eternity. Angels and demons are watching in anticipation to see what you will do next. Your life, your testimony is amazing to them. You have the ability to be tempted, to think, and to choose. You choose everyday how your life is going to go, and those little choices will effect eternity for yourself and those around you.

I've noticed even in my own life, that I am being watched constantly by kids at school, wanting to see how I the Christian am going to act. they are waiting for me to slip up. And honestly, it's hard sometimes. I find myself complaining a lot that I don't like being the example. I don't like having everyone watch me, especially if I think I'm going to fail. I don't think I'm a good representation of Christ. I obsess over things. I tell lies sometimes. I'm a jerk. I'm mean sometimes. I talk back. I really am an awful person. And all these people are watching me looking for those flaws.

But that's a good thing. They look for a higher standard, and therefore I am held to a higher standard. I don't like it but I know that God will work through me. He'll show them that you don't have to be perfect, he will take anyone who calls on him and is willing to follow him. He is working on me, and is getting rid of the ugly, crusty, sinful life I had.

Now I will never be good enough to be an example of Christ to those around me on my own. I know that God needs to be the only one shining, ever. I don't matter. My inequities don't matter. God is inside me. I am a mostly willing vessel, and he is going to use me for his Kingdom.