In the World but not of It

As we strive to connect with those not already connected to the church, we need to ‘become like’ those around us (1 Corinthians 9:19-23), but how do we do this without stepping over the line into sin? We must be cross-trained and fueled up
into order to ‘be in the world, but not of it’ (John 17:16-18). We need to find a way to relate to those at our places of work, in our schools, in our communities, while still guarding our hearts against the schemes of the devil. Read your Bible and spend time in prayer daily to ensure your spiritual guard is ready to be immersed in the world. Make sure you have spiritual accountability of some kind, a family member, friend, or fellow church member.

As we have been encouraged to step out of our comfort zones and try something new, I urge you to make a step toward becoming like those around you that are in the world and need to see Jesus in you. Cross-train, fuel up, and step out in faith, asking God to grant you an opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus, to show how Christians love those in the world. Step into the world with them, boldly and with the confidence the great commission gives us: “…And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).

Do not forget the fact that you were once ‘of the world’, and someone in your life stepped out of their comfort zone and showed you love. Jesus was the first to do this, eating with people that many questioned, going into places most condemned, and showing compassion and love to those who needed it most. Let us see His example and strive to do the same, leaving our judgments behind and embracing this world with love and compassion, as Jesus did.
 
Many Blessings,
 
Pastor Sarah