Being a Humid Christian

1 Peter 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. (King James Version)

Do you ever find yourself going outside in the summer and being instantly knocked over by the oppressive heat and humidity? I hate questions like that because the answer is obvious. Humidity is the bane of summer. The sticky, breath grabbing, profuse sweating kind of weather is not enjoyed by anyone I have ever encountered.

Yet Humidity produces one element that needs a closer look and that is its Presence. As Christians we need to have a presence among our fellow man. Too often we hide our faith and cower in the shadows hoping to be unseen and unheard. I am the backward type on the individual scene. Put me in front of a 1000 people and let my spring unwind talking about Christ. But seldom we get the privilege of talking to a large crowd and so we find ourselves in everyday life with the individual at times.

Practicing Humid Christianity does not mean to stifle one another with an overbearing voice. What we mean is to be present, not necessarily forceful. To be present is to be these things:

1. Available: To always be ready to give an answer of the hope that lies within you
2. Presentable: Witnessing a good confession in the eyes of those who are watching you (which is everybody to some degree).
3. Sociable: Not giving yourself over to undue criticism or brow beating, but showing generosity to others needs, this can be as little as listening.
4. Justifiable: When asked about what you believe, you cannot compromise on the tenets of the Bible, you cannot skimp on giving the whole Truth, for this is the Power of God to change lives. The Bible is Just and allows wonderful promises our way, but it does not placate.
5. Approachable: Does your outward demeanor turn people off? If so, work on your friendliness, no one likes a grouch.
6. Irresistible: Doesn't mean that you are pushy, but that you exhibit the character of Christ and become so contagious that others, seeing you, want what you have.
7. Practicable: Don't be so pious sounding or acting that all the person sees is yourself rather than Christ. Condescending or setting unrealistic behavior above and beyond the Scripture is not proper nor will it help anyone.

Now this is not a list easily mastered, but it does not mean it shouldn't be worked on regularly in our lives. When we are Humid Christians, present to a needy world, these qualities will surely not make you oppressive, but Refreshing!

Pray for opportunities to be Present for someone. It may be a friend, family member, a fellow believer, etc. There are many ways to exercise the Presence of Christ, many times a Phone call or encouraging note is helpful. In all accounts, be there, be ready, be Humid.

Lord, please help us to be Humid Christians and not shrink away from this duty. Help those in shyness and fear to find courage in You. May You be pleased with us. Amen.