Coherent Life

Romans 14:22-23 (MSG)
²² Cultivate your own relationship with God, but don't impose it on others. You're fortunate if your behavior and your belief are coherent.
²³ But if you're not sure, if you notice that you are acting in ways inconsistent with what you believe—some days trying to impose your opinions on others, other days just trying to please them—then you know that you're out of line. If the way you live isn't consistent with what you believe, then it's wrong.

I find three words in the quote above which capture the essence of these verses and are good reminders of how we should live. They all start with the same letter.

Cultivate – The core aspect of being a Christian is our relationship with God. We should seek to grow and mature in our walk with Him. Each relationship will have unique aspects. We are, after all, unique children of God, each one known by name by the Father. Does each day involve God?

Coherent – We are blessed if our behavior reflects what we say we believe. Are we at peace in our own skin? Does what we believe make sense to us and do our actions reflect those beliefs?

Consistent – Could it not be said that something done consistently reflects more of what we believe? Isn’t this the difference between hearing and doing?

Lord, help me this day to remember You and give thanks in all things
Let me reflect on Your wisdom and love
That they may guide me in my thinking and in my doing
Give me the desire and strength to walk in Your way