I Am Not Ashamed

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Romans 1:16-17

One thing I am not ashamed of, and that is being a Christian.  I am not ashamed of the fact that Jesus changed my life.  I am not ashamed that He took me out of darkness and placed me in His glorious light.   I am not ashamed of taking a stand on His Word... yes, that means the KJV!  I am not ashamed to go to church on Sunday (morning and evening) and Wednesday.  I'd go to church more than that if we had more services :).   I am not ashamed of the fact that I don't swear, smoke, dance, drink, or go to the movies.  I'm not ashamed that there are places I won't go and people a won't associate with because I'm a Christian.  I am not ashamed that the Bible is my sole authority for everything I believe and do.  I am not ashamed to separate from the world, and be separated unto the Lord.

I am not ashamed of these things, but that does not mean I'm perfect.  Sometimes I am ashamed.  I'm ashamed of the times I haven't spoken of Jesus even when the Holy Spirit has prompted me to.  I'm ashamed of the times I've not left a tract in the restaurant.  I'm ashamed of the times when I've not read my Bible, even though I knew I should.  I'm ashamed of the times when an unkind word has come out of my mouth instead of something edifying.  I'm ashamed of the times I could have done more for Christ and I didn't.  I'm ashamed of some of my attitudes and actions.  I'm ashamed that I don't pray more.  

I am not the perfect Christian.  Praise the Lord for I John 1:9!  Pastor preached a sermon last night about being a servant for Christ.  What would I do for the cause of Christ?  Would I leave my family, give my life, sacrifice my possessions?  I don't know.  I'd like to think I would, but I honestly don't know.  Would I be willing to be a servant?  To be nothing?  That is what a servant is.  He is nothing.  No one cares about him.  But he faithfully serves even though he receives no recognition. 

I am privileged that God wants to use me.  I am nothing.  I'm not super-Christian.  I'm just a girl, living in a town, working at my job, and trying to serve God the best I can.  I fall short, but He still uses me.  Thank you Lord!  By His grace I will continue to be not ashamed, and take my stand on His truth.