The Three C’s

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 KJV)

What in the world does that pyramid have to do with my belief in God? Good question – and there is a path to follow for the connection.

You see, I truly belief that God exists – did, does and will eternally. I also believe He cares for His creation and works within our lives. I’ve created a page that outlines my beliefs, and you are welcome to read them by clicking here.

There are uncountable numbers of people who have compassion. They wish the very best for their fellow man and will volunteer both time and money to ease suffering in this world – often in the name of something or someone they worship. They have a conviction that they can make a difference in this world, often giving no thought that there is anything beyond this. For those of us who believe Jesus is Christ, we are to do more.

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4 KJV)

Our conviction that we can have compassion and provide a personal view of our belief in God builds an understanding of the top of the pyramid – charity.

Yes – we are to provide comfort to those that need it, but we are to add what has been translated as Charity. The Greek word Paul used is defined as benevolence and includes the concept of Love - especially the love God offers to us.  That love is filled with mercy and grace. For us to reflect Him, we cannot omit love.

John put it very well:

Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. (1 John 4:15-17 KJV)

Yes – the word translated in I Corinthians 13 as Charity was translated here as Love. So, while we may fairly easily have compassion and we most certainly have convictions – Christians must top it off with love.  Yes – I mentioned this on Thursday:

And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.  (1 Corinthians 13:3 KJV)

Even when we point to what we believe is truth based on biblical principles, it must be done in love or we are not becoming more Christ-like, more Christian.

But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: (Ephesians 4:15 KJV)

Do not give up on compassion; know the basis of convictions; build on the truth of love, which is contained in the greatest of God’s commandments (Matthew 22:37-40.)