First Things First by Mayada Naami
Do not conform any longer 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, NIV)
On my way to work this morning I heard a song called First Things First by the band, Consumed By Fire. (First Things First: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpTOcZN9JB4.) I’ve heard this song played numerous times but today the lyrics hit me harder than usual. Maybe it’s because I am spending more and more time with Jesus that I heard His voice in the lyrics of the music. “I don’t want to love what the world loves, I don’t want to chase what the world does” was the verse that stood out to me the most. Lately, I have been hearing this message in different ways.
This past weekend, at my church, Dr. Tony Evans preached a similar message called “Pressing On to Maturity.” He said if we are passive Christians and accept the status quo, then we will be dragged down by the society we live in. We must dare to be different. The world around us will often dislike us for being different, but take heart, Jesus has overcome the world.
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
(John 16:33, NIV)
We have to press forward and live according to the Word, not according to the world. Sometimes we may feel like we don’t fit in with those around us, because our values and lifestyle may be a little different. In Psalm 118:19, the psalmist says, “I am a stranger on earth.” Like the psalmist, as followers of Christ, we are called to be different. Do not conform or be complacent. The world around us is living in darkness and we are encouraged to be the light. We are called children of the light and of the day because we belong to Him and walk daily in His presence. We are children of the day of the Lord, and live in anticipation of the great day when He returns. Always putting Him first, above everything and everyone.
You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.
(1 Thessalonians 5:5, NIV)