No. 361 - Choosing Holiness Over Worldliness

The Call to Spiritual Holiness

Choosing Holiness Over Worldliness

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."

Prayer 

Dear God, help me to resist the pressures of this world and to be transformed by Your Spirit. Guide me in choosing holiness over worldliness each day. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Background 

In Romans 12, Paul urges believers to live a life that is pleasing to God by offering themselves as living sacrifices. He stresses the need for a transformation that comes through the renewing of the mind. Verse 2 calls for believers to avoid being shaped by the values and customs of this world. Instead, we should let God renew our minds, which will help us understand and follow His perfect will. This renewal involves rejecting worldly behaviours and adopting a lifestyle that reflects God's holiness.

Be Encouraged 

Choosing holiness over worldliness can be challenging, but it is the path to true spiritual growth. For example, consider someone who faces pressure to fit in with their peers by participating in activities that go against their faith. By choosing to follow God's principles, they may find themselves in difficult situations, but they also experience the joy and peace that come from living according to God's will. This choice leads to a life that is not only more fulfilling but also more aligned with God's purpose for them.

Application 

1 Peter 1:15-16 says, “But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, ‘Be holy, for I am holy.’” James 4:4 reminds us that “Friendship with the world is enmity with God.” Imagine someone who works in an environment where unethical practices are common. Choosing to act with integrity, despite the pressure to conform, demonstrates the transformation of the mind Paul talks about. This commitment to holiness over worldliness reflects a deep trust in God's will and His ways.

Invitation 

If you have not yet chosen to follow Christ, I invite you to visit a nearby Church of Christ to learn how to obey the gospel of Christ. Through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of your past sins and your salvation (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38), you can begin a new life in Christ. The Lord will add you to His church, where you will learn more about God and how to live according to His commandments (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:47). Embrace the call to spiritual holiness today and share this message with those who need to hear it.

Concluding Prayer 

Thank You, Lord, for showing me the importance of choosing holiness over worldliness. Help me to renew my mind daily and to live in a way that reflects Your will. I am grateful for Your guidance and strength. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless your day. 

 

Theodore J. Quist 

Evangelist 

Church of Christ 

Abokobi - Accra 

Ghana


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