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God calls us to be in the world but not of the world. This means that--while we are on the earth, we need to live for Him only. According to this Scripture, we are not to follow the behavior and customs of this world by allowing their influence rub off on us. At first, this behavior may appear harmless--such as watching TV or being online for hours, copying someone's homework, gossiping with your friends, etc. But we need to recognize this behavior as worldy; that way, we can prevent ourselves from partaking in these sins.
Let's also do as this Scripture suggests and allow God to transform us into a new person by meditating on thoughts that are pleasing to Him. For instance, rather than judging the girl in school who gets on your nerves, instantly recognize this as the world's behavior. Then, put your mind on Christ so that you do not act on this sinful thought.
You may not see the immediate reward, but trust me, it will come. And this reward involves living in accordance to God's incredible plan for your life. Romans 12:2 says that this plan is, "good, and pleasing, and perfect." =)
- Have you ever been tempted to follow the behavior and customs of this world? What was the result? +2 pts
- What is the biggest struggle you face in applying this Scripture to your life? +2 pts
- List specific ways you can put this Scripture into action in your own life. (Example: Spend more time in God's Word, allowing Him to transform your mind so that you can have strength to resist the temptation of this world.) +2 pts
- Have you experienced the reward that comes with following God as opposed to following the world? +2 pts
- Discuss your own reflection of this Scripture (as I did above -- at least one paragraph). +5 pts
Have you ever been tempted to follow the behavior and customs of this world? What was the result? +2 pts
ReplyDelete~Yes I have. One of the biggest ways I am always tempted to follow the world is by judging other people. When I meet someone-or even when I just observe someone-I immediately start judging them. And I have discovered that the reason I do this is because I have trusted people right off the bat and been let down or fooled by them. Anyway, the result of my judgmental personality. There was a girl in our church that I hadn't actually met but naturally I had formed my own flawed opinions of her. Over this last Christmas season our church held a play and both I and the girl were in it. We got to know each other and I found out that she was actually a very cool person. So now when I go to meet someone new I pray that God will help me not to judge but also not to be suckered. :)
HP
1. Have you ever been tempted to follow the behavior and customs of this world? What was the result? +2 pts
ReplyDeleteI can’t say I haven’t in some little ways. Being a teenager comes with its package in a way. I believe it’s a blessing and gift from God; being a teenager at a stage where all you do is learn and grasp the world ahead of you. Although, in a more “worldly perspective,” being a teenager also means experiencing and witnessing some of the societal pressures that is placed on teen’s shoulders today, especially on us girls. The pressure to look a certain way or act a certain way can present itself as highly stressful and nerve-wrecking.
I see such pressures around me at times. Some teen girls tend to let go of their modesty and self-respect 365 days a year in terms of wardrobe choice (even in the winter!) It can make you wonder and question sometimes if it’s odd to stand out in away from all of it and all of them, because it seems like you’re just one focused person against 300 that go with the ways of the world instead. But then the truth sinks in; getting yourself in line with God is the way to go. Being good, loving what’s good, and doing what’s good is the right way to go, and you will find that life is more enjoyable and freeing as you decide to venture in this unpopular although worthwhile way.
While everyone else is caught up in an unnecessary race and haste to be the recognized, popular, and favorite, tripping on their own feet or one another (sadly); we’re all taking ahold of the life God wishes for us to live, the one that leads to more good things and blessings from Him.
2.What is the biggest struggle you face in applying this Scripture to your life? +2 pts
No struggles at the moment. I made a decision a while back to behave and dress in the way God delights in when it comes to being watched by many. While other girls my age were following each other in terms of wardrobe, I chose to get rid of the “too showy,” “too small,” or “too tight” while keeping God firsthand in my thoughts, getting rid of those clothes right away, or not even getting those kind of clothing at all.
Now in terms of behavior, I tend to be poised most of the time, but extremely down to earth and outspoken as you get to know me personally. Usually, some girls around my age differ completely in behavior. Some might be more open, loud, and lovers of attention. Although I’m more of the kind to keep accomplishments or any other detail in that matter hidden. I rarely and hardly show off, brag, or let my mouth run without giving a lot of deep thought into it.
3. List specific ways you can put this Scripture into action in your own life. (Example: Spend more time in God's Word, allowing Him to transform your mind so that you can have strength to resist the temptation of this world.) +2 pts
By always keeping in reminder that while I may not be a follower of societal ways… It doesn’t necessarily mean that I’m missing out. God only wishes the best for me along with any daughter of His. Except the worldly pressure to become a follower is what taps us from behind, making us feel as if we’re left out or missing out. When I come to realize it deeply, if anyone is missing out, it is unfortunately those who are choosing to follow the ways of the world. I find, with the help of keeping this scripture in mind, that there’s nothing wrong with standing out. God is with me always and I have nothing to be ashamed about if I choose to stand out, because my overall decision reflects on my values and beliefs tied to God’s ways. Good habits only make way to good opportunities.
4. Have you experienced the reward that comes with following God as opposed to following the world? +2 pts
ReplyDeleteI really have! :) I gain genuine respect from others as a result to my choices. I gain responsibility for myself as a young adult. Most importantly, I feel whole and content by trying my best to follow God’s ways. I never have to find myself fretting about what other teens my age fret about when it comes to behavior and ways. I have basically felt a huge load lifted off of my shoulders by simply choosing to listen to God rather than society.
5. Discuss your own reflection of this Scripture (as I did above -- at least one paragraph). +5 pts
It can seem really easy to find yourself consumed with the ways and behaviors of the world, but when you collect yourself in tune with God, you’ll find that the ways of the world are almost useless and worthless. You’ll find that true joy, peace, wholeness, purpose, and contentment come from God and only Him. Any other way will lead to a type of vicious cycle without end or any fulfillment. It is when you try with all of your heart and might to quiet the world around you to get in tune with God, will you feel lead to His treasurable will, and the way to life; with all of its beauty and goodness. It is only when you find yourself choosing to walk the road with God others choose to overlook will you be able to experience the true beauty that life has to offer. :)
14 points for questions answered
10 points for pinning this week's picture on Pinterest
=24 points total
I know this is super late, but here's mine.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.foreverchanged13.blogspot.com/2014/04/reflections_10.html
13 points for the questions
10 points for posting it on my blog.
23 points total.
Thanks!
In Christ,
Sarah