“Test yourselves to make sure you are solid in the faith. Don’t drift along taking everything for granted. Give yourselves regular checkups. You need firsthand evidence, not mere hearsay, that Jesus Christ is in you. Test it out. If you fail the test, do something about it.” 2 Corinthians 13:5 MSG
I woke up early this morning with the word, ‘Counterfeit,’ in my mind. The Amplified version of this verse talks about failing the test as a counterfeit! A counterfeit is something that can look like the real thing but really isn’t! Paul is saying here, don’t be a counterfeit Christian! Anyone can claim that status and just give the appearance of a believer, but check your heart, are you truly following Jesus? Are you living with the reality of Christ in you the hope of glory? You can go to church, quote Scripture, talk a good talk and not be a genuine Christian, i.e. living your life as a committed believer, with your eyes on Jesus, pursuing His will and His way? It’s time for a spiritual check up! The enemy loves to use counterfeits to give Christianity a bad name, to tarnish the reputation of the church and frustrate the work of His church. Lord, save me from counterfeit, compromised Christianity. As I check my spiritual pulse today may my relationship with you be found to be real and dynamic; my trust in your salvation solid; my love and gratitude for You evident, and my pursuit of You authentic! Help me to live on purpose for You and with You today, for Your glory! Amen 👆🏼🙏🏼