LIFE after SUNDAYs 

Sundays tend to be special. For some of us, we spend the beginning of the day in church. The combination of Worship, the Word, Fellowship and the Presence of God refreshes one in ways that cannot be summed up in words. We leave church feeling – Inspired. At Peace. Full of Faith. 

Then real life hits. Outside the four walls of church, we are now faced with the test of putting all we have learnt in church into practice. 

In my years as a Christian, I have found that it is so much easier to be energised and motivated by the Word than it is to actually live it out. It is no wonder that James cautions us to not only be hearers of the Word but doers as well – lest we fool ourselves. (James 1:22).

For me, that practically looks like remembering teachings on love and living out the characteristics of love as outlined in 1 Corinthians 13 at all times. This is especially key during moments where I may feel justified in acting otherwise. 

I must live out the fruits of the spirit and not just know them as head knowledge. I must be self-controlled when I want to have the last word. I must be patient when I feel things are not going according to my timelines. I must be joyful when the circumstances of life attempt to leave me depleted. 

The list goes on.  

Living according to God’s standard can seem overwhelming at times. But it is encouraging to know that God works in us and gives us the desire and power to do what pleases Him (Philippians 2:13). We are never in it alone. His grace is always sufficient for us and so we can boast in our weaknesses (2 Corinthians 12:9). 

As children of God redeemed by Christ’s death and resurrection, the Holy Sprit lives in us and empowers us to live according to the Word of God daily. We are no longer slaves to sin (Romans 6:6). Standing firm on these truths will help us to overcome during times when our flesh seems to be getting the better side of us. 

What I have learnt as well is that the more we feed on the Word of God during the week, the better equipped we are to follow Sunday teachings. Our consumption of the Word of God should never just be limited to Sundays (Joshua 1:8). In our daily communion with God, He builds us up and conforms us into the image of Christ which strengthens us for our daily tests.

The real test comes after the lesson. How many of us pass the test?

May we never just be Sunday Christians. May our lives always overflow with the fruit of all we learn on Sundays and beyond. 

Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the Word of God and put it into practice.” (Luke 11:28 NLT)