They profess to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him, being detestable and disobedient and worthless for any good deed.

 

When investigating a crime, one of the most crucial pieces of evidence that a detective will look for is the fingerprints of the perpetrator. Since fingerprints are unique to each individual, they can help investigators pinpoint who was at the scene of the crime. This is a distinct mark we often don’t even think about but leave behind on everything we touch. Our fingerprints are so intricate that they cannot be replicated. Similarly, when we become followers of Jesus, there is evidence of His work touching every area of our lives. He changes each part that He touches to make us into His image. This evidence is unmistakable. Some may claim to know God, but their deeds reveal they have not been changed by God through His Son.

 

If you heard a random person begin a conversation by saying, “I’m a brain surgeon,” you might initially be skeptical and wait to see other evidence that aligned with this claim. Paul warned that being a Christian is more than just a spoken proclamation. Your actions give evidence to support your claim if you have been changed by the Son of God. Paul spoke on this evidence in Galatians 5:22-25 when he said, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let’s follow the Spirit as well.” If you are following Christ, these are the fingerprints of God at work in your life. These traits are often so unlike the world around us that it is undeniable. Faith is so much more than the profession of our mouths; it is a heart that has been changed by God.

 

  • Where are the “fingerprints” of God found in your life?
  • How can you encourage others when you see the work of God evident in them?
  • Pray and ask God to continually change your heart and leave His imprint on every area of your life.