If the world hates you...

More and more I feel the weight of the world crashing in on my belief system with it's slander and it's vile understanding of who Christ really is and who Christians are suppose to be. Honestly the term "Christian" has become such a negative connotation to the world in many circles. I like calling myself exactly what Christian is suppose to mean and that is a "Christ follower". I may not get away from the connotation fully because even the name of Christ has become offensive to the world.

But I love Christ. 

Many don't want to hear the opinions of Christians because many "Christians" have given some opinions that are not progressive and not helpful for bringing the message of salvation to the masses. I will admit much of this I feel I am having to explain other doctrines from this dis-unified church to people who do not have a relationship with Christ. I, and many like me, are fighting people with doctrines such as the infamous Westboro Baptist. Also motives such as the pastor in Florida who was threatening to burn Qur'ans, both of these examples are what I would call ignorant, and lacking God's love. 

However, I have read articles and have watched shows/movies/documentaries advocating that Christians are ignorant fools who are unpleasant, unloving, completely hypocritical, and totally ridiculous. It seems that many (more so in America) are becoming more tolerant of other religions and philosophies but when Christianity is brought up, or talked about, it is a joke. 

I am a Christ follower, I don't hold up protest signs with hateful words like "So and so is going to Hell!" I am not the Judge. I do not stand on the street to yell "REPENT OF YOUR DIRTY SINS AND AVOID ETERNAL DAMNATION!" Because it isn't about avoidance, it is about a relationship with Jesus, and it's not all about being coaxed into a relationship because of the fear of damnation. 

I think it's ok to dance with joy

I think it doesn't matter what music you choose (granted it doesn't curse God)

I think it's good to debate with God

I think it's entirely appropriate to ask the hard questions

All I'm asking is that maybe those who judge us Christ followers, and those who may have preconceived notions to think about how you don't want Christians judging you. Well I feel the exact same way about people judging me for my beliefs. I am willing to talk about what I believe but I cannot MAKE someone change their beliefs, but I will love anyone just the same because God loved them first.

I cannot stop people from judging me, I am an imperfect being who just happens to love Christ, with this love I wish to share it. However, I cannot and will not use pressure, there will not be yelling, and I will only be compelled to speak the truth in love. Understanding Christ is understanding who I strive to be although I know I could never live up to who He is and was while he walked on earth.

All to God