" CONFORMITY "

Hello all, it's so good to be with you again.

Today's topic is Conformity. I can just hear some of the statements that those of us who are parents and those in authority hear from time to time. Statements like: Everyone is going; The whole class will be there; Everybody's doing it; Why can't I get one like...

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines "Conformity" in this manner: To be similar or identical, to be in agreement or harmony. Now, what are you in total agreement with in life? Before you answer know that the Word of God strongly suggest that we resist the temptation to conform to society's values. We are to withstand the strains of this world by always looking to Jesus. It has been written: "That which has been is that which will be, And that which has been done is that which will be done. So there is nothing new under the sun." It seems to me that we truly have no alternative but to trust God in every aspect of our lives. If we are to be obedient or compliant why not trust in the will of God?

I would imagine that the Lord must just shake His head and say something like, here we go again. The Word of God warns us about conformity, you, shall not follow the masses in doing evil. I continue to say to myself that I get it, I'm finding it easier to understand why we are likened to dumb sheep. We have been asked to stay away from pagan behavior. Romans 12:2 " And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the Renewing of your mind " Wow, are you getting it, are you hearing me it should be obvious as to what the Father is expecting of us by now?

One of my favorite western cowboy stars was John "Duke" Wayne. He would often address someone that he didn't know as Pilgrim. Webster defines a pilgrim as a Foreigner; one who journeys in foreign lands; a wayfarer.

As a Born Again Believer I am just passing through, and I'm not apart of this world. I'm from the school of thought that today's society and it's lack of moral fiber appeals to worldly desires, especially sexually immorality and or drunkenness. Friends, we are to keep ourselves pure of heart and therefore set apart for God.

Follow God, and don't let the culture around you shape your thoughts and actions. Only when the Holy Spirit renews, reeducates, and redirects our minds are we honesty converted, transformed to the things of God.

At this moment Romans 8:5 popped into my head: " For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the spirit, the things of the spirit."

Until Next Time,
Jim