As If

When I was about 12 years old, I was talking behind one of my friends backs to another one of my friends. (Cringe, but come on, I was 12!) Anyway, my brother overheard the conversation and said something to the effect of, "If you turned around and she was standing right there, what would you do? You should only say behind someone's back what you would say if they were right beside you." My brother was never the type of guy to give me advice, but this was a gem I hung onto for the rest of my life! In fact, I parlayed it in my Christian walk.

As I go about my day, making decisions, having conversations, etc., I have an automatic filter installed in my subconscious to act, "as if Jesus was standing beside me. Would I do this, watch this, listen to this, say this, etc?" I have resolved to only behave as if Jesus were standing right beside me at all times! Obviously, I am not perfect and still make my fair share of mistakes, but this simple, deep rooted backstop has kept me from a multitude of sins.

Behaving "as if" has become the foundation of my 'new self" or personality if you will, spoken of in Ephesians 4:22-24:

"...with regard to your FORMER way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be MADE NEW in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the NEW SELF, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

Choosing Jesus changes us. We become new. Our old life, our old way of thinking, speaking, and behavior changes. And this transformation is the most beautiful thing I have ever experienced. It makes me think of the concept of being "born again." (John 3:7) The moment I had my children and looked into their brand new eyes, they were so fresh, so brand new and nothing but possibilities were before them. Their lives were a blank slate. When we choose Jesus, we too are wide eyed, fresh and brand new! Things change...WE CHANGE. It's not an easy process but this little faith-life hack has helped me come leaps and bounds with my transition into the new personality.

My husband recently told me, that in the years since he has come to know and love Jesus, this piece of advice has been the one most impactful parts of him establishing and maintaining his spiritual moral compass. I had a friend tell me she uses this in her life as well.

So God did it again! He planted a seed in my 12 year old brain that bloomed decades later in my life and helped me and those around me immensely. So, I wanted to share this with you today and pray that it helps you in your transformation as well. Just remember, God doesn't expect perfection, he just wants our willing hearts and love. Stay encouraged!