Fake

Non-Christians often refer to Christians as a group of fakes. We as Christians don't understand why they think that way and immediately dismiss them as being wrong. However, I think that there is some truth to the non-Christian's thoughts. For some reason, Christians (and I'm including myself in this too) feel the need to live perfect, sinless lives. They may recognize the sin in their own lives, but they will do anything in their power to hide them from world while they go on living their seemingly "perfect" Christian lives. We never see the real person, until one day, they're caught in a sin that no one even had a clue tempted them. This then effects church bodies and schools. We're just frozen wondering how someone who seemed to have it all together could be struggling so much. For some reason we hold up this view that pastors, teachers, and Christian leaders are above sin. That view is partially because of the mask that they put on in front of us. Now, I'm struggling with a total mistrust for anyone who's in Christian leadership. How am I supposed to know who's real and who's hiding everything behind the "perfect Christian" mask? I wonder what would happen to the Church if we all started being real with one another? Sure, it would be hard, but ultimately, I think it'd be worth it. Non-Christians would no longer have to question our authenticity, and we wouldn't feel the pressure to be perfect all the time. We all need someone who can honestly hold us accountable to our actions. And in turn, we need to be willing to do that for others. If we were willing to humble ourselves, and live a life of accountability, we'd experience the true freedom from sin that Jesus intended for us to have. However, this doesn't mean that we have to go around confessing all of our sins to everyone. It's between you, God, and your accountability partner. 

Please pray that God will bring someone into your life that you can be real with. Also, please keep my school and a church that's close to home in your prayers, as many people are struggling with these thoughts. 

"Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed." ~ James 5:16

"Therefore, there is now on condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death."

~Romans 8:2

"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to us all. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." ~ 1 Corinthians 10:13