“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” - 2 Cor 5:17 (NIV).

Who is a believer these days has become a matter of huge debate! Once a time calling oneself a believer made some people hesitate because of the sacrifices it came with. Believers would publicly reject their old sinful life to embrace a new more austere way of life. It was a challenge calling oneself a believer and it made many people think twice before announcing so.

In one nation a certain President says he is a believer. Proof! He has done many good things for believers. Further, he insists believers owe him much.

So, is there a standard for being a believer in Christ? Of course there is. “For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved “(Romans 10:10). A believer has to make a profession of faith for Christ. But it does not stop there. What of his new life in Christ?

There was once a gentleman who used to curse like a sailor. At the very slight provocation and, sometimes even without, he would get going with four letter adjectives. How he would then enjoy the effect of his colorful language. But once he came to Christ his language changed. Or at least gradually. There were other areas he struggled with but everyone could see the process of change taking in his life.

The question of who is a believer should not be an issue of much debate as it has become. Believers live changed lives and people around recognize the difference. If a country says it is being led by believers, one has only to see the behaviors of its leaders. Anyone can claim to be a believer, yes, but the Lord said it all “You will know them by their fruits” (Mathew 7:16).

Prayer for today: Lord Father in heaven, during these last days when almost everyone is calling them yours I pray to know what it means to take up the cross and pass on that truth to those who seek to worship you in truth!