The definition Webster’s gives the word consistent is “holding to the same principles or practice.” It is usually easy to spot an inconsistency. Modern media has made a living around election times pointing out inconsistent candidates or primary officials. Often blaring inconsistencies are laughed to scorn on late night television and other comedy shows. Some statements or actions just blatantly label any people as hypocrites. But there is nothing worse than an inconsistent Christian.
However, to the contrary is the great joy found behind and in consistent Christianity. The benefits are manifold unto the child of God whose life is filled with godly harmony. The soul that practices what he preaches and preaches what he practices, whose day to day and week to week lifestyle remains pure, is one who agrees totally with Paul’s inspired description: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheles I liv; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20).
What description, though, can be given to a practitioner of consistent Christianity?
First, the consistent Christ prays. The earliest disciples of Jesus Christ sought His instruction in prayer because they knew its importance (Luke 11:1). Christ, Himself, though, was not one to teach and not act because He was a man given to prayer (Matthew 14:23; 26:36-44; Mark 1:35; Luke 3:21; John 17:6-24). Paul’s admonition regarding prayer was to, “Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (I Thessalonians 5:17-18). He stated this knowing that, “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16b). The Christians desire to communicate unto the Father signifies the placement of their priority and trust. One would not think of going days at a time without talking to their spouse or children, why then do so with their God? The Divine promise is that if we “…therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace…we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). The consistent Christian will be one given to consistent prayer, knowing the good thereof.
Second, the consistent Christ prepares. This preparation is inward and involves much dedication and sacrifice. Paul stated that the Christian should, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil” (I Thessalonians 5:21-22). Doing so allows one to “…grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (II Peter 3:18) and “to shew thyself approved unto God” (II Timothy 2:15). The blessings bestowed upon consistent preparation far outweigh the sacrifice made to do so. For what purpose does one study?
1. To receive understanding (Psalm 119:104).
2. To quench our thirst and hunger (Matthew 5:6).
3. To prepare for judgment (John 12:48).
4. To learn of the prepared mansion (John 14:1-3).
5. To keep from falling away (I Corinthians 10:11f).
6. To learn the way of righteousness (II Timothy 3:16-17).
7. To go on to perfection (Hebrews 6:1-3).
8. To be saved eternally (James 1:21).
9. To know God and Christ (I John 2:1-4) – items from Paul Sain, Ready Reference for Growing Christians.
The consistent Christian, then, will be given to consistent preparation, knowing the good thereof.
Third, the consistent Christian proclaims. Through this their lives of prayer and preparation come to fruition. The Lord’s final commission before leaving this earth involved going and teaching all nations (Matthew 28:19). In many ways, Christ can be proclaimed through a godly manner of living. “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16). However, a vocal proclamation is needed and so very effective in spreading the seed of Christianity, hoping for good soil into which it can fall. On the Pentecost day (Acts 2:14), Peter had to “lift up his voice” in order to promote New Testament Christianity and for 3,000 souls to be ushered into the kingdom. Those are the fruits of proclaiming Christianity, and the consistent Christian will be given to a consistent proclamation, knowing the good thereof.
In short, the consistent Christian will be just like Christ, for He prayed, prepared, and proclaimed. Let us be like Him now so we can be like Him than (I John 3:2).