As Christians, we are holy.
Holy's definition is simple - "to be set apart." Fresh cheese vs. cheese that's molded. Freshly-picked fruit vs. some that's rotted. It's not as if our composition is different; we're still human, but as followers of Christ, we're set apart as a people who have professed with their mouths and believed in their hearts that Jesus is Lord. That said, what are you doing to set yourself apart from the ways of this world? Do you gossip with the rest of your friend group or do you take the time to pray for those you're discussing? Do you talk to every woman as if she's a piece of meat or do you find a good woman and lead her in a Godly relationship? There are so many instances of ways in which we are set apart, but the true message here is that we often disregard the fact that just because we are IN the world doesn't mean we are OF the world. The things that the world loves are NOT things that we should love. Jealousy, love of money, selfishness, lust... these surely aren't the fruits of the Spirit! Your calling/purpose in life may not be something you've quite figured out yet, but do you really think that's something God will reveal to you when you're cussing people out because they cut you in line at the grocery store? Christians get a great deal of backlash because we're often misinterpreted as a people who think they're better than others. This is not the case! Back in the day, Jesus hung out with tax collectors and widows - people who were of the lowest social ranking in His era. That's not to say he did it because He felt bad for them - conversely, He loved them (and us) SO MUCH He showed the world that as the Son of the King, He's a servant to everyone, including those who've been cast aside by society. If you're struggling to separate yourself from sins of the flesh (aka everyone all of the time), but your friends are saying you're "being lame" or "acting like you're better than them now," it's not them, it's you - but in a good way! How do you expect God's pruning process to take place if you don't make any lifestyle changes? You don't HAVE to get drunk with your friends on the weekend (beware of the checklist - see Sinderella post).. You don't have to go on dates with wo/men who aren't worth your time. Focus on God, and He'll lead you in the ways you should go. Truths: Romans 12:2 states that we are not to conform to the ways of the world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Through the Holy Spirit, this allows us to have the discernment to test and approve what God's will is. In short: don't let "flesh pressure" (because some peer pressure can be good) keep you from growing closer to the Lord and living the life God has called you to live. 1 John 3:13-14 tells us not to be surprised if the world hates you. We are dead to the ways of the world and have new life in Jesus. You're going to encounter some haters! Remind yourself they simply just don't understand you because they don't love Christ. Meditate on 2 Timothy 2:20-24. Prayer: Lord God, thank you so much for loving me so much that you set me apart from this world. I am a new creature, and I delight in the Truth that by the blood of Christ, I am healed. God, please lead and guide me in your Spirit so that I can be transformed in Your image. I long to be like you in every way. Please show me ways in which I can die to my flesh daily and show this world more of You and less of me. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen. - L
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