Live In Holiness
Christians are to be separate from the world, a called out group who is the body of Christ. We are to be holy for the Lord (1 Peter 1:16). Paul recognized that we still must live in this world as well as be an influence among the world without staining ourselves with sin (1 Corinthians 5). So how do we put this together? How do we remain holy and guard ourselves while we live and work among worldly people, while still guarding ourselves from temptation?
First, be honest with yourself. Recognize what tempts you. Once you see what these are, then move them to the top of the “avoid list.” It may involve sacrifice in order to stay away from those temptations.
Second, embrace your identity. Instead of trying not to be noticed, try to be noticed – not in some arrogant or rude way, but in holiness and righteousness. People should see that we are different. Romans 12:1-2 says, “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Being transformed means embracing righteousness but also developing discernment to see what is good and what is evil. In order to shine the light of Christ in the world, they have to see us being transformed to be like Him.
Third, you have to open your eyes and see the need to be a righteous influence in this world. There are souls who need the truth, whether they realize that or not. James said, “Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.” (James 3:13). Peter put it this way: “Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.” (1 Peter 2:12) By being holy as we live in this world, perhaps we can influence someone that may come to the Lord!
Let us work to be holy and live righteously that we may be pleasing to the Lord as well as shine the light of Christ into the darkness!