spiritualsnippets.com

Seeing life's events in the light of God's Word.

How Will They Know We Are Christians?

John 13:35- “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”      What-Is-The-Meaning-Of-The-Christian-Fish-Symbol

 

A horseshoe, a four-lear clover, and a wishbone. Each symbolizes good luck.

Manufacturers have unique symbols for their products, whether they be cars, shoes, clothing, or eyeglasses.

Sports teams and schools choose mascots to make themselves more recognizable to the public and to build team/school spirit.

Traffic signs utilize symbols to help drivers become instantly aware of the rules of the road, especially those involving emergencies/warnings.

One interesting symbol Christians sometimes use is that of the fish, often seen on fenders, jewelry, and stationary.

The use of the fish symbol by Christians began in the early days of Christianity. Since Christians were often put to death for practicing their faith, they often worshiped in secret places.

A fish painted on the outside door of a house let Christians know that they would be safe and welcome inside. It was also used as a Christian greeting. Upon meeting someone new, a believer would draw half of the fish symbol in the dirt and the other person (if a Christian) would complete the other half of the symbol, thus revealing himself or herself as a Christian.

However, if the other person did not recognize what was being drawn, he was most likely a non-believer. Thus, the believers’s religious beliefs remained hidden.

Today, the Christian fish symbol is often used to identify Christians and/or Christian businesses. Free from persecution, at least here in the United States, the fish symbol is proudly displayed for all to see.

Jesus tells us that it is not symbols, elaborate robes, or showy prayers that should identify Christians to the world.

He wants us to show love and understanding to each other… to grant others the same mercy and grace he extended to us.

They will know we are Christians by our love.

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I Didn’t Know That You Were A Christian!

2 Corinthians 3:2- “You yourselves are our letter of recommendation, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all.”

Many years ago, a fellow teacher at my school noticed the cross that I wear as a daily reminder to myself of what Christ did for me when He died on the cross. She looked at me and said words I will never forget, “I didn’t know that you were a Christian!”

That was one of the saddest comments I had ever heard, but it changed my life, profoundly. I didn’t want people to only know that I was a Christian because of a piece of jewelry. I wanted them to see Christ in me!

Immediately, I asked God to show me ways in which I needed to change so that other’s might know that I was His child. I didn’t want to be a fake. I wanted my life to be representative of a daily walk with my Savior.

Like the King’s messengers in Bible times, that took his communications bearing his signet ring embossed in the seal of wax, I want my life to show my commitment to Christ and be an outward sign of what He has done in my heart. As His representative here on earth, I want to glorify Him through my life and actions.

Do I mess up? Of course I do! But, because He forgives his children, I am able to start over again. He knows my heart, and He sends the Holy Spirit to help me move forward so that, hopefully, I will never have to hear another person say that they weren’t aware that I am a Christian.

Brenda

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