Being a Christian in today's world is by no means an easy task. Instead of getting easier, with the supposedly increasing tolerance and acceptance in the world, it seems like it's something that keeps getting harder. Openly expressing and executing our faith is often viewed as strange or outdated. On top of that, there are people who falsely assume that if you're a Christian, then you must be a snob who hates everyone and doesn't know how to have any fun. However, we know from the Bible that we should expect nothing less of the world. Instead of trying to convince everyone of who we are by trying to fit in, we can lean on God, and look to him for guidance. Here are some verses to turn to when you want to remember how to stay strong in your faith, and to set a positive example in your everyday life.
1. "'Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way that you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good, pleasing, and perfect" -- Romans 12:2
It's normal to want to fit in with everyone. But, what we have to remember is that we are not of this world. Our goal is to grow closer to Christ, and to live our lives praising him. We can't pursue this and hold on to worldly things at the same time. We have to choose which we rather pursue and let our minds be transformed.
2. "And who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe that Jesus is the son of God" -- John 5:5
We must remember that God is in control. And this battle that we feel like we are facing sometimes every single day has already been won. We must remember are worth is found in the Lord, not in the opinions of others. When we do this, it becomes a little easier to live accordingly.
3. "Don't let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity." -- 1 Timothy 4:12
There are a lot of misconceptions that disbelievers have about what it means to be a Christian. Sometimes when we try to explain to others what it means, we get so excited that we can be received as pushy. While of course one of our purposes is to spread God's word, we can also show what it means to follow Christ in our daily living.
4. "What sorrow awaits you who are praised by the crowds, for their ancestors also praised false prophets." -- Luke 6:26
If we turn our hearts towards God and his will for our lives, the opinions of the world will matter less and less. Finding a group of people who share these values can make a world of difference and help with your spiritual growth.
It is so easy to get lost in this world. We are surrounded by worldly things and told to chase after worldly desires. Money, sex, excessive drinking, material things, and so on. These things naturally draw us in but don't fulfill us or give us any purpose. We can only find this in God. As long as we seek him, in prayer and in his word, it will become more comfortable to live for God in a world where we don't belong.
