Young Christian Leaders' Alliance

By Joel Biester

I find it very interesting how some philosophy, which completely typifies the thoughts of the flesh, is so pervasive in our culture. Then again, though sad, it's not a surprise. Even some Christians “buy into” foolish philosophies. It's by God's grace that others don't.

One foolish philosophy is, "I am who I am, don’t change me!" Well, what if Hitler had said that? Do you think God will let him use that excuse when he is judged? Is it any more right because you use it? In reality, we are all inherently wrong and sinful. Humanity is fallen and our natures have been corrupted. God calls us to be more than we are!

Oh, and "Live life!" Most people who use this don’t have a life worth living. Why live life as though it were the only thing? Have you considered that life is a short phase that directs your future? (James 4:14) Will living "life" now truly give you the fulfillment you desire? The answer is it can’t. Only Christ can give true purpose, and living for Him will be just that fulfillment.

What about the phrase, "It’s my life!"? I’m sorry – at least if you’re a believer – because Christ is supposed to own your life! (Col. 3:3-4) Christ, as God, came down to Earth as a human, to die, and not just die but to die the death of a criminal. A criminal is one who has transgressed the Law – as we all have – which Christ never once did.

He died there, enduring humongous torture, ridicule, slander, scoffing, spite, and pain. His suffering was fully physical, but He also suffered under the weight of our sin – indeed, all of humanity’s sins – and there had part of Himself, God the Father, turn away. He did all this so that you could live apart from service to sin! Rom. 6:1-6

“I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live, yet NOT I, but Christ lives in me. And the LIFE which I now live in the flesh I LIVE by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Gal. 2:20

Why think in terms of foolish philosophies? Give your mind to Christ and be free from the falsehood of this world.