In it... not of it

The topic of earthly matters came up recently in a spirited discussion involving the role of God’s children. With all that’s going on around the globe, it’s not hard to see clear evidence that the planet is growing darker by the day. We know clinging to God in trying times offers the most security and peace, but the Father has different plans (Matthew 28:19-20), leading us out into the throngs of fallen saints and sinners where grace is most needed. He wants us to share His truth, bring hope to the hopeless and take the Light to all corners of creation until the lost are found (Romans 1:16). While it may be far easier and less painful to retreat to the sanctity of the Bible itself, making ourselves aware of the world around us, while standing firm and not succumbing to its temptations and evils, should be our personal crusade. The playground bully found strength through intimidation, instilling fear and threatening harm… until the point at which the weaker chose to no longer be pushed around. By standing up and facing the enemy (Acts 1:8), the inevitable confrontation, where calm words met unfounded anger and misdirected hostility, was never as dangerous as assumed. Jesus came to save His people, so we are compelled by his example to be involved. True, we are not like the world, but we can love it.