Christian Living

FOR THE CHRISTIAN, HINDSIGHT IS 20 20 VISION

by Charles (Chuck) Robey
01/13/13
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Have you heard the old cliché, " hindsight is 20-20" ? When reflecting back on a particular situation, do the events become clearer? Does what you should have said or did, in a particular circumstance, become more into focus ?

How then, does this old idiom compare with our Christian demeanor or our church life ? ( 1 Cor 13:12) If you were ask, on a Monday morning, how you liked the Sunday service how would you respond ? Well, the minister preached to long, the sermon was to short, the jokes were not in good taste, the preacher failed to speak to me or shake my hand, no one greeted me, the music was too loud, not enough hymn singing, they talked to much about money, the long service made me late getting to my favorite restaurant, and on-and-on.

I know you are not guilty of this "hind sight" behavior, are you ? Beloved, basically the church ( body of Christ) has left its first love. Call me a "dinosaur", if you like, but I love that " old time religion" feeling. I can still remember that strong but simple evangelistic teaching, as given in the scriptures. ( 1 Cor 15:1-4 ) (Ephesians2:8-9) To that I shout a vigorous "Amen."

Additionally, in support of that old evangelistic message was the old fashioned church altar. Where are those altars today ? I realize the physical make up of that old altar was no different than any other construction. However, that old fashioned altar was very special for me, for that old altar was where I was first introduced to the Living God.

And I can't help but ponder those old "brush-arbor" meetings, where the "Amen's" and the "Hallelujah's" echoed as the spirit led. Call it what you may but I call it a longing for that " Hindsight 20-20" spirit. A spirit of kneeing by our pews and praying through, as it was known in those days. What about you ? Do you also remember those days ?

Our Lord Himself gave a good example of Christian living found in ( Matthew 5:3-12 ).

-----Have a humble spirit and not be boisterous within the church ( Matthew 5:3 )

-----Be ready to take back the hurtful comments you have made towards fellow church members . ( Matthew 5:4 )

-----Get rid of that nonaggressive boastful ego. Matthew 5:5 )

-----Eat the right spiritual foods by growing in Christ. ( Matthew 5: 6)

-----Always be ready to show mercy to fellow church members. ( Matthew 5:7)

-----Have a genuine pure heart in all affairs of the church ( Matthew 5: 8)

-----Be one who is known within the church as a peace maker ( Matthew 5: 9 )

-----Except persecution within the church in love( Matthew 5: 11

----Finally, rejoice and be happy ( Matthew 5:12 ) This final suggestion is so very important, in your church involvement as well as your personal walk with the Lord. ( Psalm 13:5 ) ( 1 Thess 5:16-18 )

And how may this be accomplished ? Simply put, let God's Holy Spirit live and reign in your lives.( Romans 5:5 )

Sad to say, for many people who come to Christ, the “power” promised by Jesus ( Acts 1:8 ) never seems to come to life . Why? Life is a struggle from one sin to the other, a life of defeat. You see, the Holy Spirit is not an option in the life of the believer. ( Romans 8:9 ). For once a person is saved, the Holy Spirit indwells that person's life. ( Ephesians 1:13-14)

However, one must seek to have the Holy Spirit control their life by prayer and supplication with the Lord. ( Romans 8:26-27

Therefore, it is important for us to all strive not to grieve the Holy Spirit, when it comes to our walk with the Lord.( Ephesians 4:29-31)

People will always be people, but God is still on the throne. So, rejoice and enjoy your walk with the Lord, be it in or out of the church. ( Philippians 4:4-9 ) Just take your example from the early church. ( Acts 2:41-47)


The very next time you enter God's sanctuary, ( Hebrews 10:25) tuck your Bible under your arm, show a great big smile and greet everyone you meet with love. And don't forget to sing out. ( Romans 15:13 )


Remember ! It is said that if one ever finds a perfect church, one should not join as imperfection fosters debasement.

God Bless All !