White Belt

Several weeks ago, I began to study Karate with the Shiloh Martial Arts Association. Robert Blackstone is the teacher and founder, and he has a great testimony as well as a great love for the Lord. During each class he shares the Gospel as well as life lessons that help believers to grow in the faith. If you live in the Memphis area, and you’re interested in Karate, check out: http://www.blackstoneskarate.com/

Because I’m a novice, I’m a white belt, the first of many colors. The thing about Karate is that it’s hard work. It takes time to learn all of the techniques correctly - - skill does not develop automatically or spontaneously. One must work hard for years in order to earn the coveted black belt. 

Christianity is similar to Karate in that we do not know everything that we should when we become new believers. Although we are followers of Jesus who are indwelt with the Holy Spirit, the new birth does not mature us instantaneously. For this reason, Paul likens new believers to babies who need milk before they can handle meat (1 Corinthians 3:2).

In order to grow in our Christian walk, we must:

1) Read Scripture. To know Scripture is to know God’s heart.

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.  (2 Timothy 2:15)

2) Obey the Lord. Incorporate everything you learn into your life.

            If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.  (John 14:15)

            Samuel said, "Has the LORD as much delight in burnt 

   offerings and sacrifices. As in obeying the voice of the 

   LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to 

   heed than the fat of rams.”  (1 Samuel 15:22)

3) Learn from More Mature Believers.

No Christian has “arrived,” but mature believers can help younger believers in their walk. Just as it would be extremely difficult for someone to learn Karate without a teacher, trying to walk with Christ without brotherly support and encouragement often leads to disaster. 

And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart. (Ecclesiastes 4:12)

Spiritually speaking, whether you are a white belt, a black belt, or somewhere in between, there always is more to learn from God’s Word. Let us strive to walk more closely with Him every day!