January 24 - "Can Do" Christianity

“Can Do” Christianity

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

Tis’ the season for championship competition. Ready or not, the Super Bowl and Winter Olympics are right around the corner.  From Lombardi Trophies to Olympic Gold and from New Jersey to Sochi, Russia, you will soon find head-to-head match-ups to reveal who will be crowned as the best. No matter the results, these great athletes all have a common denominator that has permeated their lives for countless years reaching the highest levels of sporting success.  At the core, they have taken responsibility for their desired accomplishments and grown because of it.

Some have come to discover a math formula that says, “RQ = Success” or “EQ = Failure.” In others words: Our “Success” in life is directly proportionate to the RQ or “Responsibility Quotient” which we possess.   However, our “Failure” comes as a result  of the EQ or “Excuse Quotient.” One is living by design and the other by default.  That is the “I Can” factor that Paul speaks about in Philippians.  No excuses. No rationalization.  No entitlement.   In other words, the more responsibility you take for your success, the direct amount of success will follow.  The less responsibility you take, the less success will follow.  There is a big difference between winners and losers in life:

Winners say: I have a plan.
Losers say: I have an excuse.

Winners say: Let me do it for you.
Losers say: It’s not my job.

Winners: See a solution for every problem.
Losers: See a problem for every solution.

Winners: See a difficult situation, but the possibility.
Losers: See a possible situation, but the difficulty.

Winners say: Hey Problem, look how big my God is.
Losers say: Hey God, look how big my problem is.

Winning does not make the attitude - the attitude makes you a winner. However, in the Christian walk, there is a final factor added to the “RQ” formula.  It’s the “TC” aspect or “Through Christ.”  While responsibility is required, winning in Christ always depends on Him.  His strength. His grace. His plan.  

The way that you start building the pillars of your life towards a successful and a significant life in Christ begins with personal responsibility; but continues, in the Philippians Formula, “In Him.” “RQ” plus “TC” equals “VL” (or “Victorious Living”).   If you don't get this one, you will miss a major part of a championship life in Christ. This is where it all starts.  If I get that point down, then the rest of my life can be built in a successful and significant life.  This will bring championship living everywhere you go.   

Terry Risser

Reflections:

1)    Why is responsibility challenging and excuses easy?

2)    Where can you most use Christ’s strength today?

Consider reading the word today:

 

Copyright 2014 - Terry Risser