The Double Image

If someone were to ask you how is your daily spiritual life, how would you respond? Can it be said that there are two "you's?" The everyday Christian and the more polished Sunday Christian is somewhat descriptive of many believer's lives. It is true that we cannot live a perfect life, but sometimes our lives part greatly from what they should be when we are not always around other believers. The photo above somewhat illustrates this point. If you have never seen such a picture, it is a 19th century stereo picture from the Life of Christ Series. The two photos are the same but one is slightly off center to make the stereo effect when viewed in the stereo viewer. When you look at the photos in a stereo viewer their is only one image. That is the way it should be when others see us in the workplace, the store, the park, or wherever you are. So why is this all so important?

Lets list briefly the dangers of a double image personally...

• Leads to inward turmoil that can result in emotional stress


• Leads to a general deteriorating desire for prayer and Bible study


• Leads to tensions in the Christian home which can cause marital issues


• Leads to a spiritual state of doubt and broken fellowship with God

Here are some potential dangers to the public...

• Outward show that has no foundation


• Persistent need to brag or be complacent


• Subjected to unfortunate gossip


• Deflect new believers away from the true paths of the believer


• No genuine heart to see matters through or to help others in need

That's a tough pill to swallow, but left unchecked it can lead to unwanted hypocrisy and a false image to non believers who see through it as well and decide against trusting in Christ. But you may say that since you are not perfect, doesn't that give me some room to be bright and shining on Sunday and then during the week, do things or say things that MAY lead others to stumble? The simple answer is NO. We can't serve two masters as Jesus said in Matthew 6:24. Though so many Christians try to live worldly Monday through Saturday and "clean up" on Sunday, it just does not work, not to them, not to others, not to God.

How do we end the pulling apart effects of the double image? Simply desire to be more like Christ than like the world, or anything of the world. You may call that a stock answer, and it is, but its also the only answer. There are only two natures in life, the nature of Christ, and the nature of self. One must win and one will win. Which shall it be for you? If you experience problems with this, lets pray about it now.

Heavenly Father, thank you for redeeming my life and setting me apart from the world. I know I have erred and am projecting a double standard for all to see. Please forgive me for not representing you as I should and help me dear Father to desire to live as you would have me live so that you may be glorified and that others may see You in me. Thank you for your great love always willing to restore, may I show your love towards my family, my co-workers, my church, and all that I am involved with. In your name, Amen.

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Photo courtesy of Ingersoll Stereo Views