Not Of This World

“Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever” (Daniel 12:3).

In a world full of inauthenticity, accounts of those standing boldly and courageously for the Lord give us hope and direction. One of these historical stories is of Daniel, who as a Jewish youth, was taken captive by the Babylonians, and lived among them for 70 years. Despite residing in a culture that did not acknowledge or love the one true God, Daniel dropped to his knees to pray and worship the Lord every single day. He fixed his eyes on the One who would never fail him, despite all circumstances. The world is constantly telling us that it’s easier to fit in than to stand out. The chameleon in all of us attempts to blend in. However, our calling as believers is to be in the world but not of this world.

Much like Daniel, as Christians today, we choose to remain faithful to Jesus OR yield to the pull of the culture. God isn’t scratching His head wondering what He’s going to do— He has an army of believers to drive back the darkness and make Him known all over the world, and we can be counted among them, full of faith, knowing that God is in control. Are we at peace pleasing God or are we striving to please man? There is GOOD NEWS! When our identity is secure in Jesus, there is freedom! While God did not promise us a life free from troubles, He did promise His Presence can be with us through it all.

Guiding Points:

Call to Action: Here are a few scriptures to strengthen your soul. Pray over them and be encouraged today!

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will” (Romans 12:2).

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).

“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them” (1 John 2:15).

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind” (Luke 10:27).

Prayer: Father God, help us to live differently than the world and to be salt and light. Thank You that Your presence is always with us guiding us through each day. Give us the strength to shine bright for Your Kingdom. In the name of Jesus, we pray, Amen!

Final thought: Trust God with your whole heart and you will be at peace!