Living Differently

So I hope that this doesn't come over as a self righteous rant, because that is not what it is at all it's just something that's beginning to drive me c.r.a.z.y. It's the issue of whether or not we are different from the world. I'm sick and tired of people complaining that it's difficult to be a christian, that it's difficult not to go here or there when everyone else is. Jesus never promised it was going to be easy. His disciples didn't think it was easy when He who they had followed for the last few years was crucified. The early church didn't think it was easy when they were thrown to the Lions for proclaiming Christ. Throughout the ages people have found it hard to follow Christ, He said Himself that "If anyone would come after me let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."Mark 8:34 ESV

So, yes it may be difficult not to go to that place if everyone we know is going. It may be unpopular to stand up for what we believe in. It may be against the grain if we don't wear the latest fashion which may not be Christ honouring. But surely this is all part of denying ourselves. It means that we will be different from 'The World'. We wont want to be different because of legalistic reasons but rather out of a love for Christ that overflows into obedience to Him.

What an amazing impact would be had on the world if believers genuinely took up Christ's command to deny ourselves and follow Him. If people could really see a difference in the lives of those who follow Him. Jesus never said it would be easy but surely if we are truely thankful for what He had done for us the temporary mocking or loneliness is insignificant.