How to Be a Better Christian

Many people mistakenly believe that being a Christian is all about sacrifice or giving up stuff. Jesus made the sacrifice, Christians are called to obedience.

Sure, if you're devoted to sin then you might think it's a "sacrifice" to be committed to God. In reality it's not a sacrifice when you gain more than you lose. That's what God does for those who come to him through Jesus Christ; he gives much more than we think we lose.

God asks for obedience in the same way a good parent asks for obedience. God cares for our welfare the same as a parent cares for a child's welfare. A good parent doesn't demand obedience out of selfish motives or to deprive the child of anything good; neither does God ask for our obedience so that he can just spoil our "fun" or as some people actually believe just for "kicks."

God doesn't want our "sacrifices." He doesn't want us to "give up" stuff for him. He doesn't want self-appointed martyrs; he desires obedience.

God might call you to a task in which you might lose your life but it is God alone who will call you. You're to be ready when he does.

Let's take a brief look at what God says through the Bible about obedience.

Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD ? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams (1 Samuel 15:22)

But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice'
(Matthew 9:13)

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them inteaching them to obey everything I have commanded you
Matthew 28:19-20

Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you. (Hebrews 13:17)

Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord (Colossians 3:21-23)

No, the Bible isn't approving of slavery. St. Paul is instructing Christian slaves/servants to be good servants; he isn't expressing approval of their condition. All Christians are "slaves" to Christ; we're to obey with gladness.

We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands
(1 John 2:3)

This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome
(1 John 5:3)

The mark of a true believer is the desire, willingness, and effort to obey God.

My brother says we're to have an attitude such that we can say to God "Yes God, now what's the question?"

Sources:

Bible Verses quoted from the New International Version of the Bible (NIV)