A Matter of Faith

​All this talk of “My Jesus is better than your Jesus” is totally silly to me. I’m certain just saying that is offensive to someone, somewhere. Oh well. 

 Anyhow, I love my faith and I’m never ashamed or fearful to share it. However I am aware that many of us are from different backgrounds. We are raised up to believe in different faiths. We are intrinsically motivated differently. With this always in mind and understanding certain people's motives when it comes to matters of faith, here’s how I start off all my conversations about my faith in Christ: 

 "Before we get started I want to preface our conversation with this statement. Please understand that I am very happy to discuss faith with you. I enter into our conversation with no agenda. I am not here to convert you to my belief nor am I here to be converted to yours. Truly what I want is for both of us to openly share our beliefs. Doing this will allow us to find middle ground and on this ground together you and I will certainly find unconditional friendship." 

 I have done this for years, with people from darn near every conceivable faith. As a result I have forged incredible relationships with a very diverse group of people. Though our faiths often do not agree we each discovered mutual respect for one another, regardless of beliefs. 

 On a few occasions I have encountered the stubborn, rude and inconsiderate person - you know, the "My Jesus is better than your Jesus," and "I know everything there is to know about the bible," people." The ones that are determined to make everyone believe the way they do - no exceptions!!! These folks are best left as found. Only prayer for them, and away from them has any hope of allowing them to be open-minded to the fullness of creation, ​and God's unconditional love for all His creation.  Amen. Amen. Amen. 

SCRIPTURE
1 Peter 3:15-16
"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander."

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