Counting The CostSample

LIVING DIFFERENTLY:

Quickly! What are the first things that come to mind when you read these words? Cell phone. Social media. Clothes. Food. Movies. Have you ever paused to consider why you prefer an iPhone or a Samsung or why you choose the restaurants you eat at? Perhaps, it’s because these things stand out to you in all the best ways possible. They’re different than all the other options. In the same way with God, He calls His followers to live differently.

When we look at Romans 12, we see Paul encouraging believers to surrender as a response to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This is a giant “yield” sign standing in the middle of the road of your life serving as a reminder that believers are called to yield their lives to Christ. That’s the beauty about living differently. It’s saying “yes” to Christ and allowing Him to lead, guide, and transform. This is what makes Christians “set apart” or different. 

Recognize the battle for your life. This world wants to make you give in, dictate the way you think, and influence the decisions you make. While the things of this world may say “stand out” for various reasons, Christ transforms His followers and gives life to new thoughts, attitudes, and choices that ultimately bring glory to Him. 

Action Point:

God allows us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds through the Bible and through His Holy Spirit. Take a moment to evaluate your desires. The things you truly crave/want. The desire to be in the Bible every day. To spend time in prayer. Ask God to give you an increased desire for more of Him. 

Question(s):

Am I desiring more of the things in this world or desiring the things God would have for me? 

How am I spending time reading the Bible? Asking “what is God showing me” through the passages I’m reading? 

Am I memorizing Scripture? 

If Christ is my Savior, is He my Lord? 

Am I truly yielding my life to His plans and purpose for my life? 

Is there something/someone God is asking you to step forward with and make a difference?