"You...are a letter from Christ."

[2 Corinthians 3:3 NIV]

The Bible says your life is a love letter from Jesus, "known and read by everybody" but a letter is only effective if it is easily read and understood. An older friend said of his deteriorating handwriting, "I can still read writin', but I can't write readin'!" Incomprehensible writing distorts the message and discourages the reader.

The purpose, to convey the writer's thoughts, is lost, and the reader either stops reading or fails to get the message. To ensure that your love letter from Jesus gets through to the people He's sending it to, here are some common distortions to avoid:

(a) Dishonesty, like padding your expense account, stealing company time or taking home items you think won't be missed.

(b) A begrudging, resentful attitude when a friend, fellow worker or boss asks you to go the extra mile and help at an inconvenient time.

(c) Shoddy workmanship, reflected in a substandard product or service.

(d) Being independable and inconsistent, such as when you can't be counted on to be where you're supposed to be, or to fulfill your obligations.

(e) Being a killjoy. Christians who lack a sense of humor and resiliency, who act like they're "joy-impaired," hurt the cause of Christ.

(f) Touchiness, like when you wear your feelings on your sleeve, are easily upset and overreact to unintended offenses.

(g) Temper tantrums, where you're crabby and grumpy because things don't go your way.

(h) "Holy Joe-itis" that makes you speak in self-righteous, supercilious tones. Since you are being "known and read by everybody," guard against these behaviors that distort the life-giving message God wants to send to others through you.