There are times when living as a Christian will have you appearing weak. But it doesn’t mean you are weak.
The current trend I’m noticing throughout general society is that most people are out for themselves. I’m only responsible for myself and have to look out for myself because no one else will. Me first and you get the leftovers…if I feel like sharing. In the business world, it’s the C.O.A. (cover your own butt, to phrase is nicely) mentality. As in do whatever you need to do to protect yourself, which can include hurting others and deceitful practices. No longer are we extending ourselves too far, let alone over-extending. “That’s not in my job description” seems to be the common trend.
This is not the Christian train of thought. We copy Christ–which means putting Him first, then others and yourself last. Not in a harmful way, mind you. But like Christ, we’re to always be considerate of others. We try to respond and react with caution, not wanting to verbally assault someone just because they did it first. While we’re not responsible for everyone, we prefer to show kindness and civility towards others. We share first, and give to ourselves last. When it’s possible to go above and beyond, we just do it, often in the background, not expecting nor requiring accolades. One who lives a Christian lifestyle tries to avoid conflict, or at least avoid continuing conflict. It’s best to leave peaceably with others. Even through a scathing verbal attack, a Christian will choose not to respond when they cannot reply with love.
It’s these qualities that can make one look weak. Who walks away when being taunted? Who wouldn’t appreciate watching vengeance dished out against a foe? Why care about other people?
Because Jesus did. And He was the strongest man to ever life on this earth. He opted not to fight back when the Pharisees questioned His every move and action. During his unfair trial in the middle of the night, Jesus chose to stay silent, to leave their pointed questions unanswered. And it wasn’t because He was guilty–He wasn’t. In fact, had He wanted, Christ could have not only shut down every false accusation against Him, but turned the tables on every single accuser. He could have told them all about themselves and their mommas, describing with detail what was in their hearts and minds. But Jesus doesn’t play dirty.
With Christ as our ultimate example, we have a great role to maintain. Yes, that means bowing out and appearing to be weaklings. Yet, when you make that conscious choice to live for Christ, it truly means that you are taking the high road. Christian living can appear to look like a lifestyle of the weak and useless.
It takes strength to make the better decisions. Better doesn’t always mean easier. God’s strength is more visible in the shadow of our perceived weakness.
