Embracing Authentic Christianity.

“And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ.” Phil. 1:9-10. 

The English word “sincere” comes from the Latin “sincerus”, which is derived from two Latin words sine and cereus; meaning “without” and “wax”. I’ve read that when working with wood, many carpenters of long ago would use wax to hide their mistakes or imperfections in the wood. Eventually, when an item of furniture or a carving was finished, it would be stained or polished and the wax would then become indistinguishable. Later on, however, after a little usage and being subject to the elements, the wax would melt or crumble away and the ‘cover-up’ would become apparent. The more professional wood workers of the day, however, chose only the finest wood and they worked with extreme care so as not to cause any damage. Of course, this was far more costly in terms of both time and money and so when they went to the market place to compete and sell their wares, they would put up a sign that said, “sincerus”.

This is really the key to true success: In all your dealings, be a person of integrity, and whatever you promise or say or do, be sincere and do it ‘without wax’! The apostle Paul prayed for the believers in Philippi to be “pure” which can also be translated as sincere. When the apostle prayed for the lives of the Philippians would be “without wax,” it meant he longed for them to be men and women of integrity. When held up to the light of God’s Word it is revealed they are the real deal. That sounds like an important way that we, too, should pray–for ourselves and for each other. We must now live with a new consciousness that we must be above board in all things.

This is a call to authentic Christianity. Authenticity requires removing the masks worn to impress others. It involves having nothing to hide and allowing your true self, including your weaknesses, to be visible. This means fostering integrity in your personal life and not pretending to be someone you are not. You seek to maintain emotional and spiritual transparency. Living

without wax involves dealing with, rather than hiding, internal "cracks" such as fears, doubts, and insecurities. You must start living in a way where your sins and flaws are not covered up, but rather exposed to the grace of God, which strengthens you.

You must get rid of phoniness and double-mindedness. A "without wax" life is consistent, where your private actions match your public persona. It means being honest in your dealings and committed to a standard of truth, rather than taking shortcuts that cover up mistakes. Selah!

FURTHER READING:

“Therefore let those of us who are “perfect” embrace this point of view. If you think otherwise, God will reveal to you the error of your ways. Nevertheless, let us live up to the standard that we have already attained.” Phil. 3:15-16.

“He will eat sour milk and honey, which will help him know how to reject evil and choose what is right.” Isa. 7:15.

DECLARATION: 

Dear Abba Father, I thank You for the gift of life and the privilege of salvation. Father, I come before You asking for the grace to live a life truly 'without wax'—a life of sincere, unhidden, and genuine faith.

Lord, I pray that my love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that I may discern what is best and be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness in every area of my life in the mighty name of Jesus, amen!

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:

Num. 35:1-34.

Num. 36:1-13.

Deaut. 1:1-46.

QUOTE FOR THE DAY:

“Do What Is Right, Not What Is Easy Nor What Is Trending.”