By the fruit....

Psalm 19:7

English Standard Version (ESV)

 ⁷ The law of the LORD is perfect,^[a]
    reviving the soul;
the testimony of the LORD is sure,
    making wise the simple; 

Matthew 7:18-20

Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

¹⁸ A good tree can't produce bad fruit; neither can a bad tree produce good fruit. ¹⁹ Every tree that doesn't produce good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ²⁰ So you'll recognize them by their fruit.

Psalm 19 tells us that the Bible (i.e. law and testimony of the Lord) revives and makes wise those who believe it. Matthew 7:18-20 tells us that we will know who true Christians are (did you know the term "Christian" means "little Christ"?) by the fruit they bear (meaning their actions/lifestyle).  One cannot know what the fruit of a Christian should be without reading the Bible and studying what God has given us to help us live like Christ. 

So many take the term Christian upon themselves simply because they live in a "Christian nation." Sadly, last time I checked, America is not a nation acting as Christian. Others take the term because they "grew up in the church," or "are a good person," or "read the Bible once in a while," or their "parents are Christians." However, the truth is anyone can call themselves a Christian, but that is not what makes you a Christian. What makes you a Christian is believing what the Bible teaches. All of it. Not just the easy parts or the parts you want. ALL of it. Christianity is realizing that you are not good enough on your own. That you can never live a life worthy of heaven without help. Jesus Christ is that help. He made a way for us to live eternally in heaven worshiping the one true God. We must take all of His word, study it, and live it no matter the cost. This life is short compared to eternity's reward for true Christians!

This holiday season take time to examine your heart. Take time to listen to truth. Take time to study God's Word to you.

I love you all so much!