The world's values are often the opposite of God's values. This can often cause Christians to feel like misfits.
Many people don't want their lives exposed to God's light because they are afraid of what will be revealed. They don't want to be changed. Don't be surprised when these same people are threatened by your desire to obey God and do what is right, because they are afraid that the light in you may expose some of the darkness in their own lives.
It is our job to be the light, but don't be surprised when you are persecuted for doing just that. Christ wasn't popular is his day and neither will you be. Not when you are a constant reminder of the change that other people know that they have to make in their own lives but don't.
Every time we make a decision to be different, we are treated like misfits. "Oh come on, its just one glass. You won't get drunk." Or, "it's just one party." Or "he's a cute guy, why on earth do you only have to date Christians?" By the time their arguments are done, you feel the need to give in and do what goes against your own conscience.
Today, I'm here to remind you that you ARE a misfit. As Christians, we are called to be different. We are not supposed to fit into the mould that has been created by the world. Our lifestyles SHOULD be different and we are supposed to stick out like a sore thumb! That's what shining out light means. We are to be so different that people will notice immediately and glorify our father for the chances/differences they see in our lives. Every time you say no to something God would not approve of you are actually showing that you are stronger than most people. It takes a lot of strength and determination to do what you know is right. It is often easier to go with the crowd and do the wrong thing.
So, if you're struggling with peer pressure (yes, adults go through peer pressure too, not just teens) be reminded that God has got enough strength for the both of you. Be reminded also that when you choose to be different you are choosing to swim against the tide. Though that may be difficult, by the end of your swim you muscles will have grown stronger and the next time you need to do it, it will be even easier. Stay focused and remember that this battle is Spiritual and not physical. Every time you are faced with temptation it's your real enemy setting you up to fail.
So go out today and be different. Be a misfit and trust God to take you through. Be strong because by making a decision to serve God, you have already proven that you are strong!
It is our job to be the light, but don't be surprised when you are persecuted for doing just that. Christ wasn't popular is his day and neither will you be. Not when you are a constant reminder of the change that other people know that they have to make in their own lives but don't.
Every time we make a decision to be different, we are treated like misfits. "Oh come on, its just one glass. You won't get drunk." Or, "it's just one party." Or "he's a cute guy, why on earth do you only have to date Christians?" By the time their arguments are done, you feel the need to give in and do what goes against your own conscience.
Today, I'm here to remind you that you ARE a misfit. As Christians, we are called to be different. We are not supposed to fit into the mould that has been created by the world. Our lifestyles SHOULD be different and we are supposed to stick out like a sore thumb! That's what shining out light means. We are to be so different that people will notice immediately and glorify our father for the chances/differences they see in our lives. Every time you say no to something God would not approve of you are actually showing that you are stronger than most people. It takes a lot of strength and determination to do what you know is right. It is often easier to go with the crowd and do the wrong thing.
So, if you're struggling with peer pressure (yes, adults go through peer pressure too, not just teens) be reminded that God has got enough strength for the both of you. Be reminded also that when you choose to be different you are choosing to swim against the tide. Though that may be difficult, by the end of your swim you muscles will have grown stronger and the next time you need to do it, it will be even easier. Stay focused and remember that this battle is Spiritual and not physical. Every time you are faced with temptation it's your real enemy setting you up to fail.
So go out today and be different. Be a misfit and trust God to take you through. Be strong because by making a decision to serve God, you have already proven that you are strong!
You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:14-16
Joana James - Author of From Redemption to Maturity, Nightmare at Emerald High & Alana and Alyssa's Secret
Thanks for the timely reminder to go in God's strength and not my own, and that the real battle is spiritual.
ReplyDeleteYou're most welcome!
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