This is basically the second part of my blog “What am I expected to be like and do?”. The first thing I did when thinking about this is try to find Bible passages that are about acting as a Christian.

Basically, the primary instruction given is to try to be as like Christ as possible. No, we will never be perfect like him, but we are to work and focus on trying to be :

1 John 2:6 “Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked”. 1 Peter 2:21 “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps”

Titus 3:1-8 “Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, ..”

If Jesus is the template then I need to look at what he was like. The passage in Titus gives clear instruction as to how being Christian is to be done.I looked to the New Testament to find out what he did and what he was like. I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that Gods commandments given to Moses [Exodus 20], are still relevant and the base tenants of how Christians are to be, (also, they are the base tenants of most legal and social laws we follow, even non-Christians…just saying…). Jesus was self sacrificing as he died on the cross for our sins Matthew 27:32-56.

When you read the Bible, you find out that Jesus was compassionate[ Matthew 9:36, 14:14, 15:32, 20:34], serious and focused as he was not swayed by any situation from his path. He had a heart of servitude [Mark 10:45 ], and was self sacrificing, unselfish, giving, and encouraging.He was submissive to God in all things [Matthew 26:29]. He was obedient to Gods will [Hebrews 5:8 ]. He was forgiving and merciful [Luke 23:34]. He was loving [John 11:5]. He was caring and good, as demonstrated by him healing the sick and showing concern about the afflictions of others.

He was honest and truthful, never violating his own word. He said what he meant and meant what he said. [John 14:6]. He was peaceful and not a bully. He was a strong, leader who had close friendships with his disciples. He was patient [2 Peter 3:9].

He also, felt anger,fear, frustration, tiredness, and sorrow. Jesus also rebuked others for the way in which they acted, he exposed lies, stood for what he believed, forgave others, and counseled others. He discussed Biblical truth with others and taught others Biblical truth. He made sure he knew the scriptures and was able to recall Biblical principles when needed (such as when Satan was tempting him in the wilderness). He resisted temptation, but didn’t act judgemental to others when discussing their temptations and sin. He prayed a lot. He sought God frequently, and regularly. He had faith in God and acted on that faith.

If these are Jesus’s traits, then I can only conclude these are the same ones I should be striving to have.  I view being Christian as demonstrating, consistency, honesty, kindness, patience, understanding, faith, confidence, compassion, servant heart, strength, goodness, submissiveness and obedience to Gods will.

I believe that should look like a person who doesn’t, lie, steal, gossip, hurt others, back-stab, judge others, conform to what others want. Someone who isn’t prideful, boastful, underhanded, two faced, legalistic, uncaring, unkind, unloving, selfish, self -centered, egotistical, arrogant, a doormat, faithless, hardhearted, sinful, lustful, coveting.

As a Christian I should love others, encourage, teach, help, care, be honest,  pray, read the bible, be consistent in words and deeds. Not hypocritical. Selfless, obedient and submissive to Gods will. I should seek God in everything, thank him regularly, and be steadfast in my faith at all costs. I should not be a stumbling block for others, in their walk, but a support. I should use my gifts and talents to bring others to God.I should watch what I say, and how I say it. I should stand up for what is right and Biblical no matter what. I should lovingly(from Love and in Love only, not anger or judgement) rebuke other Christians when I see that they are not following Gods word. I should forgive others and ask God to forgive them(as Jesus did on the cross, if he forgave who am I to not forgive ?) I should take care of my body as its his temple and a gift. I should share with and give to others. I should take care of my family in whatever way I am skilled at doing so (cookies anyone?). I should respect my husband, show him love and kindness. Demonstrate a servant heart to him. Give him Godly advise. I should never allow others to defame him in any way, nor should I ever do so. My challenges with him should be discussed with him after prayer and seeking Gods direction.

Lastly, I should NEVER care about or fear what anyone but Jesus/God thinks , because ONLY God gets to decide my life here on earth and in eternity, and Jesus is the ONLY one who died on the cross for my sins so I could have eternity in heaven…Period.

This is what I learned about what Christians should be like so far…

God Bless