So I recently had some things I just had on my mind and I wanted to share with you. I was reading a book about American Christianity (general view of Christianity today) and how it compares to the LCMS church in particular. Even if you aren't of this denomination, I think you might find this post interesting...

I've read countless things about people and their "decisions for Christ" and I have a big news flash for you...you didn't choose Christ.

You might be thinking, "Sure I did! I decided to become a believer!" 

Nope. Let me explain why.

It has been made extremely evident throughout Scripture that we are sinners, dead in our trespasses, and unable to do anything on our own (Ephesians 2:1, Colossions 2:13). The phrase "Choose Christ" is simply silly, because it implies that we, as sinners, did the right thing all on our own. That's like putting the choice of salvation in our own hands...no no no. The old Adam in us keeps us in the darkness of sin, and not able to save ourselves. We needed a Savior. The Savior that would later be born to us in a manger. 

I think it's very important to remember, especially during the Christmas season. Christ did not come to earth because we asked Him to, He came because God promised us He would send us His Son to save us! It was prophesied in the Old Testament on numerous occasions and so we get to rejoice that the Word was made flesh (John 1:14) in order to fulfill the Law perfectly when we could not (Matthew 5:17).

Now you're probably wondering, okay well then where does my participation come in? Wouldn't your stance argue that everyone is saved? 

Nope. Not that either. Our faith comes to us through the Word. The Holy Spirit instills faith in us. That wasn't a choice, it was rather a gift. Those who are not believers simply reject this gift. There is no "choosing" to take the gift, it's already yours! You can only turn it away (Ephesians 1:13-14 and 2:8-9).

There is no "me" in Christianity, but there is CHRIST, and that's who this faith is all about!

I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas season remembering the birth of our Lord and Savior! Prayers for you and your families during this time of year. God is so good.

When I am hurting, I look to the cross and see that Christ has already come to me. He has promised me an everlasting love and comfort despite anything I do.

Blessings upon blessings,

Marissa Mayer

Source: Has American Christianity Failed? (Bryan Wolfmueller)