I have a video clip to show you.

This clip is artistic in nature, designed around some sermon audio by pastor and author, Francis Chan. I came across it while searching for teaching content on why we should embrace conflict, endure challenges and make our Story better. For some reason, I found myself greatly impacted by the clip, even though it was focused on a single verse (1 John 2:6).

For those of you unfamiliar with the passage, read over the verse within its context, then check out the clip.

“We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” (1 John 2:3-6)

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpB-FUg9PD4&w=800&h=450]

A few subsequent thoughts:

For me, after watching this clip, I feel convicted and a bit stuck. As I reflect on Chan’s message, I can say that I truly do want to live as Jesus did. I have a passion for Jesus and for His church. I can easily state with certainty, that I desire greatness for His kingdom. Nevertheless, I’m just not making the mark. I am not living as Jesus did. Hence, I feel stuck.

Confused? Allow me to explain. Within my passionate, expressive nature, I share my thoughts and/or opinions freely. Unfortunately, sometimes this over-powers people and I sound angry and offensive. This is not my intention at all, but it’s my reality.

The sad part is that most of the time, I have no idea that I’m doing it until it’s over. I feel like someone has taken over my body and turned me into this bully, that I despise. I’m often wondering, “Why couldn’t I have bent down and written in the sand for a while before I responded?“

Thankfully, I have Peter and Paul.

In regards to Peter, he was a passionate guy like I am. He said and did all sorts of impetuous things, always getting into hot water. Just consider the time that Jesus had to rebuke him as Satan. As for Paul, a passage that always seems to provide me comfort and the strength to try again is found in Romans.  Paul writes about his struggles by stating the following:

“For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.” (Rom. 7:18b-219)

When I read this, my only thought is, “this is my life!” However, though I will continually struggle as Peter and Paul did, I have to come back to 1 John 2:6. I must keep striving to live as Jesus did.

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

• What are you being called to give or give up, in order to live as Jesus did?