Ambassadors For Christ

How many times have we said to ourselves or to others "it doesn't matter what others think, only what God thinks"? Or we say to ourselves "I know where I stand and that is what counts"?
I know I am guilty of that many times. But think about it, is that really how we should think when presenting ourselves to others?
What I am talking about is our reputation. Our reputation as a follower of Christ. We are representing Jesus to the world. We are ambassadors for Christ. Therefore, shouldn't we be concerned about what others think of us? Our primary goal in life should be representing Jesus in the best way possible.
Whether we like it or not, others are watching us to see how we behave in certain situations, how we dress, how we take care of our own bodies.
This was the topic of my devotions this morning, and it really made me think. Do I take pride in my appearance, in my speech, in my actions? I remember when I could still work I always tried to have my uniform clean, without stains, and ironed. I wanted my shoes to be clean and polished. I wanted my appearance to look professional. If I was that concerned about my regular job and how my appearance was, how I conducted myself, then shouldn't I be so much more aware of how I represent who Jesus is in my life.
I am not just talking of outward appearances but also inward. Our attitudes, our willingness to serve, how well do we express the love of Jesus to others, and so on.
Jesus truly cares about our reputation, He cares about how we represent Him and the Kingdom of God. He has trusted us to be His ambassadors. Wow, think about that. He trusts us to be a representative of the Kingdom of God. He trusts us to show others His love, the same way He shows us His love. This is quite a responsibility. It is humbling, and an honor.
Jesus loves us so much that He trusts us to be His ambassador.
Jesus tells us in His Word that if we do not care about our reputation and appearance then we are setting ourselves up for failure and a weakness that could lead us into a trap from the devil.
Wow, how often do we have these "wow" moments?  I have plenty, and this was one of them.
I know how much Jesus loves me and loves you. So much that He gave His life for us. But it didn't stop there. He continues to teach us everyday how to live victoriously, how to live in a manner that brings Him glory. He wants us to succeed, He wants us to have victory.
Being reminded of these things this morning encouraged me to do my best everyday to bring Him glory. To do my best to live in a manner that is worthy of being called His ambassador.
I encourage you faithful readers, Jesus has His best for you also. He wants us all to have the reputation that He is proud of.
We don't have to feel guilty if we mess up because He will help us to get back on the right path and continue being His ambassador. Stay faithful to Him and He will reward you abundantly.

1 Timothy 3:7Amplified Bible (AMP)

7 And he must have a good reputation and be well thought of by those outside the church, so that he will not be discredited and fall into the devil’s trap.