Be Not Conformed to This World

Paul wrote in Romans 12:1-2, "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 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."

This instruction given to the saints at Rome is sorely needed by Christians today. We live in a world which subjects us to various pressures, calling upon us to "conform." Because "every one else" dresses immodestly, uses vulgar language, is involved in the mad pursuit of material things, is intent on the things of this life that are pleasurable, etc., etc., Christians are under heavy temptation to do likewise.

When many encourage such activities, excuse sin by saying; "when in Rome, do as the Romans do," remember that Paul wrote to those who were in Rome and told them to not do as the Romans do. He said, "Be not conformed to this world." It doesn't matter how popular and widespread sin and ungodliness may be. It doesn't excuse sinful conduct nor make such practices more acceptable. 

Christians are called upon by Titus 2:12 to deny ungodliness and worldly lust and to live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world. This we must do, regardless of what those around us do, and regardless of what they say. Jesus said in Matthew 5:14 and 16, "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."

The life of the Christian is to be different - a pure, clean, wholesome kind of difference that others may see. It's sad indeed when our conduct can't be distinguished from that of the worldly people around us. How about you? Are you careful to conduct yourself correctly in all your relationships in life? Do you keep your life clean and your practice pure? Do you know what God has said about living our lives here on earth in preparation for eternity?