Poem by Carol Wimmer: When I Say, "I'm a Christian"

Hello, everyone!

As well as writing, I love to read content by other Christians. I just had to share this poem with you. It's been doing the rounds for a while. According to my super-quick internet search, it was written by Carol Wimmer in 1988 and first appeared in Hi-Call Gospel Magazine in 1992.

It's so beautiful because it's a reminder that we did not earn salvation through our own works, but by grace through faith.

Many think they know what Christians are about, but they don't. I tell you, if you don't know who are, the world will decide for you. 

So, this is what being a Christian means to me.

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not shouting, “I’ve been saved!”
I’m whispering, “I get lost sometimes
That’s why I chose this way”

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I don’t speak with human pride
I’m confessing that I stumble –
needing God to be my guide

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not trying to be strong
I’m professing that I’m weak
and pray for strength to carry on

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not bragging of success
I’m admitting that I’ve failed
and cannot ever pay the debt

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I don’t think I know it all
I submit to my confusion
asking humbly to be taught

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are far too visible
but God believes I’m worth it

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartache
which is why I seek God’s name

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I do not wish to judge
I have no authority
I only know I’m loved

©1988 Carol Wimmer All Rights Reserved