I have been hearing a lot lately that there is such a fine line between the things of this world and what the Word has to say about them. Honestly, I think sometimes WE create that fine line so that we don’t really have to search out the real truth. The Bible -GOD’S WORD- is very clear about a lot of things, if only we would take the time to accept it.
What is so confusing and unclear about Romans 12:2?
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Clearly, it says, do not be conformed to this world. In other words, Christians, we should want no part of what this world has to offer. If Jesus didn’t partake, isn’t it valid to say we shouldn’t either? Now, there are some that would go on to say, "Well, I’m not hanging out with those people because they like to swear and drink." Jesus was a friend to everyone. How are the unsaved supposed to know about Him if we aren’t there to show and tell them? It is fine to hang out with non-believers as long as we do not conform. If we begin acting as they do, how will they know the difference between someone who is truly serving the LORD and someone who is not? To them Christianity may begin to look like a phony “Sunday only” thing. No, we are called to live Romans 12:2 24/7. And not only that…
Let’s look at Isaiah 61:1
The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, Because the LORD has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound.
I, absolutely, do not believe that these words were spoken just for the prophets and people of that era. God’s Word is for us NOW. God has called and anointed every single one of us and, to be honest, we should be busy about HIS business all day long. I know, for a fact, that I am not busy enough telling others about Him and allowing Him to use me to the capacity He sees. I can guarantee you that is beginning to change.
In John 6:44 it says,
“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them…”
As we are living a life that is not conformed by the things of the world, it should be easy to see fruit – to see people come to know Christ. If there is anything hindering us in ANY area, then it not only affects us, but everyone around us as well. A farmer is the one responsible for his crops. If he doesn’t tend to them like he should, then he won’t reap a harvest. Consider yourself the farmer of your life. If you don’t tend (to bear love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control in it, along with reading the Word, praying, and having intimacy with God) to your life, how is God supposed to cultivate it and prepare it for harvest?
I truly believe God wants us to be radical for Him. He doesn’t want us to be quiet about our faith. He doesn’t want us watering down His Word. He doesn’t want us conforming and acting like the unsaved to try and bring them to Him. We are to speak His Truth in love and let the Holy Spirit do the rest. He draws all men unto Him. We don’t. How is leading someone to Christ legit if we do it with manipulation, deceit, or persuasion? It never is.
Fine line…or not? Not. The Bible is clear – simple enough for a child to understand.
Two questions: 1) Why do we misconstrue it to fit our lives? 2) Why can’t we accept it for what it says?
Just a few thoughts.
