Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- December 5, 2012
“This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind.” Ephesians 4:17 NKJV
Followers of Jesus are called to walk against the grain of a Godless culture. Indeed, Christian character is meant to be like a thermostat influencing the spiritual temperature of culture, unlike a thermometer that merely measures the degrees of decadence. Prayerful pursuits are probably not a path of least resistance or conflict free efforts. A walk of intimacy with Jesus and ethical behavior invite push back from culture.
Our goal is not to create controversy, but to be peacemakers who win over accusers with counter-cultural kindness. However, there are those who may never change, who are quick to categorize our values as narrow, intolerant and insensitive. These skeptical souls need our grace during disagreements and our forgiveness over fractured relationships. Do you have a family situation that requires you to take the high road of restoration?
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12
Furthermore, your ultimate opponent is Satan and his menacing demons of deception, distraction and discouragement. You are engaged in a spiritual battle in the heavenly realms that is only overcome by the blood of Christ and His testimony on your behalf. In prayer you boldly confess the blood of Jesus as your salvation and security. A cultural canopy of darkness is lifted by the Lord’s loving light. So, walk empowered by the Spirit.
Yes, be in the world but not of the world. Be attractively different without being repulsively weird. Your walk against the culture is a mission of mercy that requires perseverance and prayer. Some who dismiss you now will one day search you out in their season of suffering. Culture needs the calm of Christ delivered by your winsome walk with Him. Without apology, model acceptance while risking rejection. Walk wisely.
“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to walk against the culture as a loving light for You.
Related Readings: 2 Kings 6:16; John 16:33; Romans 8:31; Ephesians 2:2
Post/Tweet today: Some who dismiss you now, will one day search you out in their season of suffering. #persevere
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© 2012 by Boyd Bailey. All rights reserved.
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Wow! Excellent post, and timing for me could not be better. Seems like I’ve been discussing this very topic with my wife a lot lately, as our 18 year old son is choosing the World View ( the futile road). We’re praying and loving him without agreeing or allowing him to think “that’s fine.” He does know, down deep, who Jesus is and what He’s done. He’s just choosing not to believe right now. I hope he’ll return sooner rather than later. But God knows!
Thank you this is valuable and so encouraging!
Ann you are welcome. Blessings to you and your family.
A fellow servant of Jesus,
Boyd