“Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for God’s people everywhere, I have not stopped thanking God for you.” (Ephesians 1:15 NLT)
How can you tell if a person is sincere? If a mother says: “My children mean the world to me,” but then she routinely puts her own needs above those of her kids--that would not add up. Or, if a leader says: “I am the least racist person in the world,” but then he promotes intolerance and discrimination of people who are different than him--that would not ring true. Insincere people often believe in their own delusions. They feel entitled to put themselves first. They convince themselves that their actions are justified.
Genuine people are straightforward and honest. They don’t try to impress others by puffery or misrepresentation. They are transparent, not evasive. Most of all, a sincere person’s convictions and actions are congruent. Their life choices reflect who they claim to be.
A person of sincere faith can be identified by his solid trust and outpouring of love. His choices reflect his beliefs. Christ is central in his life; everything else is peripheral. Godliness permeates his behavior. His convictions and his actions are congruent. Sincere faith is authentic and attractive. It inspires others to holiness. It encourages gratitude, stimulates joy, and awakens the Spirit within.
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