Where do we draw the line? As Christians we are called to live in the world but not of it. This statement is somewhat problematic because it can get lost in interpretation. Some Christians take an extremely legalistic view of this command and set out a bunch of rules and regulations to live by to avoid being "of the world". Other Christians take this command as a way of just saying "hey we live under grace. Let's live our lives and as long as we don't commit the "serious" sins we'll be okay".

The result of both views is a lifestyle that is not pleasing to God. Being loose with this command can lead to sin and being strict with it can put us in bondage. So how can we live in the world but not of it?

This is a question I've been struggling with recently. I think about music, movies, the words I speak, the actions I take and wonder if a random person were to take a look at my life, would they see Jesus or would they see just another person living in the world and sin?

When we start to feel lost, God never leaves us stranded. The Bible is full of information about what it looks like to live a life that is pleasing to God. As long as we are following His word we are not of the world.

We're not alone in figuring this out. If you believe that Jesus is your only way to salvation, the Holy Spirit is within you whispering words of caution or encouragement. If you're about to do something that's not pleasing to God, He will let you know.

How can you tell the difference between plain old fear and an actual conviction about something? Go back to God's word. Does what you're about to do go against His word at all? If yes, that is the Holy Spirit warning you not to go down that road. If no, then you can rest in knowing you are not displeasing God.

The gray areas can be tricky though. Things like getting tattoos or drinking can be controversial topics for Christians and that is when you need to decide what your convictions are. We all have freedom in Christ and some people will feel fine with getting a tattoo while others feel that doing that is wrong.

Exercise your freedom but never at the expense of a fellow believer. If you know certain things are offensive to them or they struggle with them please don't rub it in their faces and do it anyways. Refrain from doing things that will cause another believer to stumble.

If you're struggling with something and you are unsure what God is telling you about it, seek wise counsel. That's the beautiful thing about being in a family of believers, we're there for each other. Be careful not to take an extreme view on the idea of living in the world but not of it. The line is already drawn in God's word and the convictions in your heart.