Never Underestimate What Christ Can Do

A friend of mine and his wife decided that their children in public school did not need to participate in the sex-ed portion of a “health” class. The school, known for its intolerance of Christian ethics, refused. They were told by the “surprised” Principal that “No one else objected!” That “Nobody has complained before at the curriculum!” Implying that since they were alone in their position, they were small-minded, ignorant, old-fashioned prudes. That no one since the beginning of time ever thought to even doubt the absolute correctness of the almighty curriculum. That they were making an inept educational decision and depriving their children of necessary information for them to live life. While it wasn't actually stated that the administrator was impressed that these (intelligent & well-educated) parents managed to tie their own shoes and not drool for the entirety of the discussion, her imperious attitude let that opinion be known. The concerned parents were left to believe themselves to be alone in their desire and commitment, and that therefore something was wrong with their request.
That incident occurred some 20 years ago, and in the meantime the condescending attitude toward Christians and our values has increased to the point that many otherwise educated secular people simply assume that Christians are intellectually deficient and that there aren't really that many of them who think their private faith should impact the public realm. Christians are often left feeling alone and as though they should doubt their place as people who impact society for their faith. There are many Christians who agree.
Truth is, that the Bible relates many, many occasions in which God's people were led to feel alone and in doubt. While each of us is one in almost eight billion, we are one of a fewer number—the number of the redeemed, those willing to “follow the Lamb wherever He goes” (Revelation 14:4). Peter refers to the Church as “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people” (1 Peter 2:9) That image should bolster our spirits and fire up our hearts to make a difference everywhere we go as ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20) As a member of Christ's church, you are NOT alone. Ever. There ARE other like-minded Christians. More importantly, the Lord is with each of us and the Holy Spirit lives in each of us.
The Lord told Abraham: “I will bless you…and you shall be a blessing” (Genesis 12:2). This goes for each of God's children in Christ--Isn’t it encouraging? Christ says, “I will make a difference in your life, and you will make a difference in others.” The first step in making a difference is being different. When we live and labor in the Lord by faith, knowing our work is not in vain in the Lord.
Don’t measure yourself by others, and never underestimate what Christ can do in you and through you. Jesus plus one is a mighty force. Start now. You are not alone-- whatever others say in their wishful thinking!
Remember, in Matthew 18: 20, Jesus said “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
(With thanks to David Jeremiah.)