Dare to be Different

We’ve all seen them. We may occasionally be one of them. At church, we act one way. When we exit the sanctuary, we leave our Sunday behavior behind. How easily we slip into such conduct if we fail to stay on guard. Not only does that deny Christ, but it also influences the opinions of non-believers about what it means to live a Christian life. If following Jesus makes so little difference, they wonder why bother. For our own sake and for theirs, let’s dare to be different.

Different language

Taking God’s name in vain and using gutter language has become so common, many people have no idea it’s not okay. Whether we say God’s name or use initials or other substitutes in an irreverent way, we fail to honor God.

Although not curses, many other words are better left unsaid. They indicate a lack of respect for self and those around us. Ephesians 4:29 tells us to allow no unwholesome talk from our mouths. If it’s not helpful, true, or kind, don’t say it.

Different attire

Some fashions leave much to be desired. Celebrities sport them. Magazines push them. Department stores and boutiques sell them. That doesn’t mean we should wear them. A good question to ask if we wonder whether an outfit compromises our witness: Would we wear it to a meeting with Jesus? If we answer no, don’t buy it and don’t wear it.

Different relationships

Few behaviors destroy our integrity faster than mistreating other people. We say we love everyone as Jesus loves. Yet, how often do we catch ourselves making fun of one another, talking or texting behind someone’s back, spreading gossip, or failing to speak up when someone else does those things in our presence? How many times do we include the unpopular in church activities but exclude them at other social events? We ignore long-time friends to be accepted by newcomers we hope to impress. We promise to spend time with a shut-in or help with a problem until we receive an invitation for a fun-filled activity.

Let’s make our love for one another more than a Sunday-morning sentiment. Let’s make it real in our attitudes and actions every day of the week.

Different habits

We know smoking, drinking, drug use, sexual experimentation, and other risky behaviors endanger our lives and the lives of those under our influence. At the same time, the world around us describes them as harmless activities. We might never deliberately damage a church building, yet we willfully mistreat our bodies – the temples of God’s Holy Spirit – when we engage in such actions. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 that we belong to God and are to honor Him with our bodies. Not only do we want to avoid negative behaviors, but we also want to include positive habits such as sufficient rest, nutritious food, and regular exercise.

Different media

Likewise, we want to keep a close eye on what we feed ourselves mentally and emotionally. The common expression “garbage in, garbage out” makes a lot of sense. When we gorge ourselves with a steady diet of videos, books, websites, and music that glorify self and sin, those attitudes slowly seep into our psyches. If we want to maintain our integrity as believers, we must choose wisely how and where we spend our time.

Dare to be different in order to make a difference.

When people see the positive difference Jesus makes for us, they’re more inclined to follow Jesus too. May every action we take and every word we say honor the Savior we serve.

We must live it if we want to proclaim it.

“Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17 NIV).

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