We all know of people who claim to be Christians, yet do not regularly attend services. Some may show up on Easter or Christmas at some "church" and think that's enough. It's the whole mindset that Christianity is NOT a way of life but instead a part-time plan.

We must be especially careful that we do not engage in part- time Christianity. We do that when we pick the time and place to practice our faith instead of being consistent every moment of every day.

When we choose to sin, neglect our relationship with Christ or let the world squeeze us into its mold, we become part-time Christians. Jesus told us to take up our cross daily and follow Him (Lk. 9:23). He didn't suffer an agonizingly cruel death on the cross so that we could pick and choose when we want to follow Him.

Why do some turn their back on our Savior and in effect tell Him to step out for a little while? Usually it's because they are thinking only of themselves. Yet a Christian is one who has died to self. He is not longer a slave to sin but to righteousness (Rom. 6:6,7,17,18). As Paul said, "...it is not longer I who live, but Christ lives in me..." (Gal. 2:20).

There is nothing part-time about following Jesus. We must not fall into the trap of thinking we can put on or take off Christ like a piece of clothing. When difficulties come, the Christian can't call "time-out" or put Jesus on hold. Christianity is a way of life. "And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father" (Col. 3:17).

By Shane Williams in The Lilbourn Light, Vol. 9, Nos. 4,5, August/September, 2008.