THE GOD BRAND

Why do some Christians take on an “ownership” attitude where God is concerned? They believe they have all the correct answers. They even claim to have the only questions as well. All other beliefs in God are therefore incorrect, right down to a half dozen or so words that are acceptable. If those buzz words aren’t used, and used correctly in their mind, you cannot possibly be a Christian. They have taken on the God/Christ Brand. “If I look just right, and talk correctly, I can be successful in the Christian community.” That is not Christianity my friend. That is commercializing the name of the Holy One, trying to acquire His brand.

If our relationship with God doesn’t start with humbling ourselves to His will and following His lead, then we will have to find another name for it. I don’t know what to call it and even if I could guess, I would be defaming the body of Christ, the same as the people I first mentioned. The only window we can peer into to evaluate a person’s faith, is the mirror. The only ministry we have, is that of witness, bearing testimony to the work of God in our own lives.

If we must have a “brand” to define our lives, let it be “servant,” not “He/she who knows the mind of God.” Faith in God is a relationship, a sacred connection. It is not joining a social network to advance our climb to the top. Let us pray for a humble heart and a bold approach to fulfilling the work He has given us. Let us pray:

“Holy Father, shine your light from heaven and set your flame in my heart. Your name is holy to our ears. May your kingdom come in your time. We humbly ask to be your servant. We would rather sweep up the crumbs from under your table than to be left out of your banquet hall. To live within your love, in any capacity, is better than living a moment in darkness. Forgive us when we have tried to use your name for our own benefit. Your name is to be called on to help and heal others. We all know of someone who is alone and hurting; we call on your love to come and brush away their tears and heal their broken heart. May we be humbly bold to testify to your love. We pray that all glory be yours, oh Father. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen”
Doris
“God gives us stories that testify to His love. Let me tell you mine.”
Copyright 2011 Doris Gaines Rapp, Ph.D.