Redneck Devotion

Scripture: By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another
John 13:35

For several years Jeff Foxworthy has made a cool dollar telling jokes about rednecks. Some are funny and others offensive, but either way that is one man who had an idea that made him famous. I am sure you may have heard it asked before, if you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? Well that is what I am proposing…

You might be a Christian if:
You think of others more than yourself.
You give of your time, talents, money and resources to benefit God’s kingdom instead of your own “kingdom”.
You look for people to share the gospel with every day.
You are slow to anger, and rich in love.
You are forgiving instead of condemning.
You know what God’s word says about _____________.
You love your enemies and pray for those who despitefully use you.
You love mercy and hate sin.
You look for the best in people instead if the worst.
You seek God’s approval over everyone else’s.
You spend more time in prayer than you do complaining.
You ask the pastor of your church where you can serve without be asked.
You raise your hands instead of your voice.
You only say good things about your children and spouse.
You ask God before you ask anyone else.
You set your eyes on things above not on earthly things.
You seek your riches in God’s Word not in your deeds.
You exercise your faith every day.
You speak blessings instead of curses.
You stop to recognize God’s hand at every opportunity.
You seek forgiveness of sin every day.
You ask for God to fill you with His Spirit every day.
You spend time with Christian friends and seek to bring others into that circle.
You have no other gods.
You do not indulge in your sinful nature.
You put on the full armor of God before you leave your house.
You ask what can I change instead of looking for what others can change.
You recognize Jesus as being your righteousness.
You seek depth and intimacy in your relationship with God above all other relationships.
You love more, complain less, pray at all times, praise in all circumstances, humble your hearts, give instead of take, and find peace in fellowship with your Father.

I think I stepped on my own toes. OUCH! I am sure we could go on and on for the next year coming up with new lines. But perhaps given that it is time for resolutions we should just start with the basics. Set a goal to love more and complain less and we are on our way to spiritual health. May you find peace this year in the arms of your Savior.

Leslie Stephens
Winchester, TN

Prayer: Father, we cannot do these things without your help. Fill us with your Spirit so that we may resemble Christ, the author and finisher of our faith. AMEN!

Prayer Tip: Setting a time to meet with God prioritizes him in your life.

2-2-07