truest self

g o o d 

m o r n i n g 

x

x

x

Faith without actions is dead.  Actions without faith is dead.  Recently in teachers training we learnt about behavior modification and we also learnt about the labeling theory.  We may not be able to control labels we may be able to (at times - heart willing) be able to adjust our behaviour.  It's standard / expected that as a teacher our behaviour is always controlled but let's take this into our personal lives.  We learn about modifying children's behavior through addressing the antecedent and positive reinforcement.  We could apply the same approach to our lovely selves.  When addressing the antecedent instead of self condemnation, punishment and shame we could praise ourselves for good and desired behaviour.  While this isn't the point of my blogpost it does make a point.  Similarly as Christians we want to exhibit behaviours on the outside that exhibit the depth that is within.  So faith needs to be demonstrated by power and actions regardless of whether people label you this or that. Truth is christians can be stupid and christians can be intelligent.  So maybe being labeled 'Christian' is not desirable anyway.  

Which leads me back to my previously mentioned point ...It is an overwhelming task to disprove the entire human race that Christians are actually quite cool.  It is not our job.  God in all His might is not threatened by His ' bad name / misconception '... 

This too should not deter us from practicing self control and practicing behaviour that feels true to our truest self- the self that is made in the image of God.

May He continue to reveal His truest self to you and may you continue to experience His truest self being exhibited through you- in power, behaviour, actions and self control.

love, 

Phoenix & Sarah