Esther 3:8

New International Version (NIV)

There is a certain people … in all the provinces of your kingdom who keep themselves separate. Their customs are different from those of all other people.

For meditation

She was the only believer in her village when the missionaries came to her village. Two years before then, Akua went to sell her farm produce in the district capital. She made a quick sale that day, and headed for the local bus station for her trip home. She heard a middle-aged man making a pitch to a small crowd about a man called Jesus, who died for the sin of the world. His story was so convincing that she believed and prayed to receive Jesus into her life. Things changed with her, as Jesus became her life from that day. People noticed a sweetness of spirit around her and they loved it. She became their peacemaker in difficult family conflicts and prayed in the name of Jesus for those in need. Her life became so distinguished that they called her Akua Yesu (Jesus).

In Acts chapter 11, we read about the genesis of the name, Christian (Acts 11:26). People observed the characteristics of Jesus in the lives of the believers, so they called them Christians. They lived a separated life to Jesus and His character marked them out.

As believers of Jesus, we are called to a life that reveals His character. Our Christian identity is not revealed in our preaching. It’s in our conduct. The fashion district of Madison Avenue in New York City should not blur the image of Christ in us. Modesty and decency in our adornment should distinguish us (1 Peter 3-4). Hollywood should not produce our role models. We have our only model, and his name is Jesus (Heb. 12:2). Wall Street should not negate our integrity. It should be ingrained in our minds (Dan. 1:8). Neither should traditional or popular culture mandate our behavior. The word of God is our only mandate (Ps. 119:9-11). We keep ourselves separate, and our customs are different from that of the world (Esther 3:8).

Unfortunately, the lives of many believers do not bear witness to Jesus. Worldliness characterizes the personal lives and worship of many. But Christ calls us to be holy because He is holy (1. 1:15-16). We are called to train ourselves to be godly (1 Tim. 4:7), and to be witnesses of Jesus throughout the world (Acts 1:8).

1. So, how is your life?
2. Does it shine where you are (Matt. 5:14)?
3. Does it minister Christ to others (1 Pt. 3:15-16)?
4. Despite your lack of education, do people take notice that you have been with Jesus by your courage in speech and presentation (Acts 4:13)?
5. Has your life been separated from the world around you (Rm. 12:2)?

I pray the name you have assumed from Jesus is not maligned where you are because of your speech and conduct.

Rather, may it bear witness to the name of Jesus, your Lord and Savior and bring glory to the Father in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Shalom