Matthew 23:28 In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.

Professing To Be One Thing While Being Another

If you've been to China in the last few years, you know they have embraced capitalism with a passion while still professing to be communist. But professing to be one thing and doing another is not unique to communism in China. It's the case for many who call themselves Christians and yet live the way they want to live.

A recent Gallup poll found 72% of Americans believe that Jesus was the Son of God, yet 80% felt each individual should arrive at his or her own beliefs independent of any church. Now those two stats show a huge disconnect between belief and practice, between professing faith and living it. It's called hypocrisy and it's the number one reason people outside the church say they have no interest in Christianity.

Whether you're a communist or a Christian, practice what you preach--or at least have the integrity to call yourself something else. Actions reveal what you really believe, no matter how much you profess what you are.

Personal Perspective: I don't think truer words can be spoken! We often concentrate on bringing those who are lost to Christ by talking salvation but not living it. As an athlete, I practice and I practice to make sure I'm at the top of my game...no matter the sport. But I can't say that I've put forth the same effort in my walk with God...it takes the same practice, the same perseverance and dedication! When I talk smack on the softball field, I've been able to back it up, but I can't say as much for my game against the devil. As I've equipped myself with practice, hard work and study of my favorite game, I must also equip myself as a Christian. By practicing what I speak, working hard toward Godly goals(relying on His strength, not my own), persevering in times of trials and temptations and constantly studying God's word! These are the tools of the trade and is what will allow me to win the game and ultimately defeat Satan. Praise be to God whom all strength, and victory come from!