By: Undre Griggs, Jr.
Christians are to be a holy nation and find joy outside of the joys of the world. This is largely due to the fact that the world is full of evil and darkness. We see so much evil, crime, and mistreatment that it can deter us from doing good. We are confused and bewildered when we see righteousness considered evil and evil considered righteousness. Often times, many consider the commandment to be spotless in the world a difficult task; but we should consider it a necessary task. We should look at it like the task of eating and staying hydrated. A person who abstains from the joys of the world is going to be a healthier person (mentally and physically) than someone who is a part of the world.
1 Peter 2:9 (ESV): But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
When we remain in the light of Christ, we are able to cut through the darkness of the world and every action we take contrary to the world will be an opportunity to proclaim the Gospel. People are looking for change and people understand the warmth that light creates. Unfortunately, that does not change the difficulty that we will face as we attempt to shine our light.
1 John 2:15-16 (NIV): Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.
That is why we need to frequently spend time with likeminded Christians. We need to congregate together in the assembly of God whenever we have an opportunity to attend. It is necessary because we need to recharge and strengthen our spiritual body from continuous persecution (Romans 12:2). The church is that refuge built on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Titus 2:14 (NKJV): who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.
His love for us is evident when we look at the safe haven He built for us. He built us a place to learn, laugh, sing, and praise His holy and beloved name. It is His sacrifice that strengthens us to do good works while we are being persecuted and it is His sacrifice that purifies us in a world of full of hate.
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