Whatever You Do...

by Andrea Anderson

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him" (Colossians 3:17).

The above verse is so powerful because it tells us that whatever we say, whatever we do, where we go, who we hang out with or what we watch on TV all needs to glorify God. Honoring God is not just a Sunday church deal - it's an every day, 24/7 lifestyle.

Example: Let's say you're with some friends and one of them says something that reminds you of a dirty joke you once heard. Before blurting it out and perverting the minds of your friends, stop and think "Does this joke glorify God? Is it something I would say if Jesus Himself were standing in person next to me?" If the answer is no you're probably better of keeping your mouth shut or changing the subject. Everything we do should glorify (magnify, exalt, mirror) Jesus Christ.

Well, how do I know what Jesus would do? By reading the Bible, spending time alone with God and going to a Bible-believing church. These are the three basic steps that can help us grow closer to our Master and Creator, Jesus. I encourage you to be aware of the choices you're making, the friends you're hanging out with, the things you're saying and what you're watching on TV or in movies.

None of us change all at once. It's always a continual process and if you slip or mess up, you can automatically ask God to forgive you. If you go to a party that you know you weren't supposed to be at, ask God to forgive you and don't go there again. Or if you go to a movie that deep down inside you know is not appropriate for you to watch, repent and don't go to see those kinds of movies again.

To repent means to change your mind and do a corresponding action. When we catch ourselves doing things that do not honor God we need to repent and make it a point not to do it again. God is faithful and patient, He is never surprised at our actions or at what we say. He knows all about us and can see everything we do. Let's work harder at glorifying God in everything. In the long run, when we get to heaven, it will be a rewarding experience!"

About the Author: Andrea Anderson  is a pastor's daughter and is married now and is a teacher who lives in Riverside, California.  She can be reached at this email address: amazinggrace518@yahoo.com