The world. What an all-encompassing word. Everywhere we look there is lying, evil, bitterness, racism and prejudice. As Christians we are called away from worldly customs, to follow You instead. Yet, we are encircled by the world and have to live and work within the world's values that often include selfishness, envy, hatred and corruption.
Scriptures tell us to give up pride, covetousness, selfishness, arrogance, cheating and stubbornness - the world's ways. Instead, we are to choose behaviors that are fitting for God's plan. That means we must allow our minds to be renewed by the Holy Spirit. It is our goal to walk in God's purpose for our lives.
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will," (Romans 12:2 NIV).
Christians are called to discern what is right. Paul spends several chapters of Romans giving guidelines on how we should behave. "We are to give ourselves to Christ as living sacrifices, obey the government, love our neighbors, and take special care of those who are weak in the faith," (Life Application Study Bible NIV).
Living in Christ is challenging at times. Once we accept Jesus as our Savior He lives in us and He is always there to help us through the tough times. He helps us reject the evil of the world and be molded into faith-filled believers who can change the world.
Dear God, we need You today. Encompass us with Your protection. Fortify us so we can stand up to what is wrong. Help us make right decisions, and strengthen our faith so we can be Your Light to others around us. In Jesus, we pray. Amen.
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