"Before you share about God's story, people want to know that God's story has changed you. The story you tell must be backed up by your lifestyle."

a simple statement which i read from the cell materials two days back,
and it has got me thinking and reflecting about how i've been leading my life.
has it been one which sends a positive message to the viewing audience who watch from their unbelieving seats or has it turned them off?

as much as i'm glad to say that i've not backstabbed my colleagues,
and have treated them with love and brought much joy to the department,
there's the gentle reminder that i'm also guilty of gossiping with them about a certain colleague who is almost disliked by everyone
this certain colleague is a christian as well.

as much as i'm delighted to say that i've treated my students with love and patience,
teaching, counselling and being a real friend to them,
there's the gentle reminder that i'm also guilty of joining forces with them against a particular student whom everyone dread meeting
this particular student is a christian as well.

why did i give in to gossiping and outcasting people who crossed my path?
i don't have a strong hatred towards them although i wouldn't deny that i get irritated with them at times
but the real reason would be that they are always the hot topic to talk about and in order to remain in the conversation with the close friends around me, what else but join them?

i'm guilty of not striving to please the audience of One and to shine for Him in such areas, but i'm thankful for His gentle nudgings from time to time, His grace and mercy as well.

Is the story you're telling backed up by your lifestyle today?