What Does a Christian Look Like?

Have you ever thought about that question? What DOES a Christian look like? Is there a certain stance? Do they say certain things? Do they act a certain way? In some ways one might answer yes to all of these questions. However, in today’s scripture, Paul does a much better job of describing the characteristics of a Holy Spirit led disciple.

If we want to be honest, all of these characteristics listed above can be found in any “good” person. We can see these characteristics in all sorts of people. There are good people all around us, despite hearing more about the bad ones. However, what makes a Christian different than other good people is that these characteristics automatically grow in us because of our relationship with the Holy Spirit.

Have you ever seen a small child mimic a parent in what they say or do. Sometimes it’s cute; sometimes it’s funny and sometimes it’s embarrassing! They repeat what they see lived out in front of them and sometimes it is not even intentional. They pick up actions, phrases, etc. because of the proximity of people they care about.

When we talk about what a Christian looks like, the fruit of the spirit is a great place to start. When we spend time with the Holy Spirit, these fruit will automatically begin to grow in our lives. We will become more loving, more joyous, more gentle, etc. because we are in relationship with God through the Holy Spirit.

So the question for those who believe is this: Am I bearing fruit in my daily life? Can people tell that I am follower of Christ by what I do, what I say and how I relate to the people around me? May the fruit of the spirit grow abundantly in your life and may your harvest be plentiful.

Roger A Vest