Identified With Christ

I heard Dr. Dennis Kinlaw speak on levels of intimacy with God. He described the most intimate level as that of identification. What does it mean to identify with God? Paul explained it when he said, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me" (Gal. 2:20).

To us, this means we are dead to our selfish desires, but what does it mean to others? "This means they see, not me," said Dr. Kinlaw, "but Christ." We are to be Christ to others.

With this concept in my mind, I thought of the young woman with marital problems who was coming to talk with me that afternoon. Wanting to apply this truth, before she came, I said with total confidence, "I will be Christ to her." I did not know her deepest needs, but I would rest in God who knows all things. My work would be faith.

She was there nearly three hours. We talked, prayed, and read Scripture. Moment by moment I trusted the Lord to give me what she needed. I didn't know what to say to her, but I believed that the ideas that came to mind were from Him.

The next day, I received a bouquet of flowers with a card from her saying, "Thanks for the peace that you brought me through Christ."

When we are with others, we bring to them the presence of Christ. We may be unsure what to say or do, but as we depend upon Him, He enables us to express His love.

Thank you, Jesus, for the Holy Spirit who teaches me what to say.

"I gave them the words you gave me" (John 17:8).

Today's Prayer Request
Please pray for the direction of the Holy Spirit as we plan the Come to the Fire Council meeting January 5-7.