"It’s much easier to act like a Christian than it is to react like one."

A thought by Mark Batterson from his book, Win the Day (p. 60). The Crown Publishers Group. Kindle Edition. (Click on the book title to go to Amazon to buy the book.)

So true!

Mark says, "Am I right? Most of us are good actors! We play the part pretty well—until we hit rush hour traffic. Or is that just me? It’s our reactions that reveal who we really are. And maybe that is why Jesus focused so much of His teaching on reconditioning reflexes.

"Pray for those who persecute you. (Matthew 5:44)

Love your enemies. ( Luke 6:27)

Bless those who curse you. (Luke 6:28)

If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. (Matthew 5:41 ESV.)

If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. (Matthew 5:39 ESV.)

"None of those things come naturally. They’re as counterintuitive as kissing the wave."

He continues, "A few days after his denial, Peter informed his friends, 'I’m going out to fish.' (John 21:3) This seems innocent enough, but it’s more than a statement of fact. It’s a declaration of intent. What did Peter do before becoming a disciple? He was a professional fisherman. I think Peter was going back to his old way of life, which is what we tend to do when we make mistakes. We throw in the towel. That’s how mistakes become losing streaks. We flip the script the wrong way!

"The next morning, Jesus showed up on the shoreline. Peter and his crew hadn’t caught anything all night; then they heard someone say, 'Try the other side!' The other side of the boat was only seven and a half feet away! Come on—do you really think the fish were hiding on the other side of the boat? The disciples flipped sides, and Jesus flipped the script. They caught so many fish that Peter immediately knew who the Monday Morning Fisherman was. He jumped out of the boat, fully clothed, and swam to shore. You gotta love this guy!"

Mark then says, "Your miracle may be closer than you think! It may be only seven and a half feet away. The question is this: Are you willing to try the other side? It’s the little steps of obedience that often take the most faith!"

And that is so true, isn't it? So will you take the step?

Yes, yes!

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