The Benefits of Being a Christian

I read an interesting yet disturbing article this past week where a young pastor acknowledged the "collapse of American evangelicalism." After reviewing the present condition of evangelicalism he notes that the historical vital signs are to "make converts and point to Christ. By those measures this former juggernaut is coasting, at best, if not stalled or in reverse." Could it be that  the present condition of evangelicalism is a direct result of evangelical churches' and Christians' failure to effectively evangelize?

One reason, no doubt, that Christians fail to evangelize unbelievers is because Christians themselves are not convinced of the benefits of being a Christian. I recall King David's words in Psalm 103:2,"Bless the Lord,O my soul, and forget not all His benefits." Then, David proceeds to delineate some of those benefits. In today's world, reflecting on the benefits of being a Christian and even using them as an evangelistic selling point may not be a wrong-headed idea. So, what are the benefits one should consider with respect to being a Christian? Here is my list which I acknowledge is partial at best.

When we become Christians:

1. Our lives come into alignment with the God of the universe and His self-revelation. See John 1:1-3.

2. God gives us an eternal perspective on life. See Psalm 90:12.

3. God gives us security in spite of and in light of circumstances. See Proverbs 3:5-6.

4. God calls us to be a people of influence. See Matthew 5:13-16.

5. God gives us emotional health and coping mechanisms. See Matthew 11:28-30.

6. God gives us inner peace. See John 14:27; 16:33; 20:19,21,26.

7. God gives us His Holy Spirit who enables us to do what is right. See John 16:5-12.

8. God gives us purpose in our lives. See Romans 12:1-2.

9. God gives us an understanding of His will. See Romans 12:2.

10. God lets us experience His love. See Galatians 5:22, then look back to John 15:9-10,17.

11. God provides us guidelines to maximize our relationships. See Ephesians 4:32; 5:1-12 and Paul's insight into family and work relationships.

12. God gives us the privilege of prayer with its coordinate answers. See Philippians 4:6-7.

13. God assures us that we will never be alone. See Hebrews 13:5.

14. God gives us perspective in living in a lost and fallen world. See James 1:2-8.

15. God gives us hope. See 1 Peter 1:3,13,21; 3:15.

16. God gives us an advocate who represents us before Himself, Jesus Christ. See 1 John 2:1-2.

17. God gives us a forever family. See 1 John 3:1-3.

And on top of all these things, Paul reminds us that "things which eye has not seen nor any ear heard, nor has entered the heart of man, all [this and more] God has prepared for those who love Him" in 1 Corinthians 2:9.

Did you think of any other benefits to add to the list? Please share in the comments.