Why does it seem that life has become so confusing?  Ideals and values that we took for granted a few years ago are now being questioned by our society and culture.  These questions began in secular society and have made their way into the church world.  Now the church is being influenced by society and popular culture instead of being the influence.

Jesus said that we are to be “salt of the earth” and “light of the world” (Matt 5:13-14) instead we are giving in to popular culture and political correctness in order to remain “relevant” to this generation.  We can only truly be relevant by remaining true to the example of Jesus Christ…..to love the world but not be of the world.  Loving the world meaning, to love those who are in need of the truth of Jesus Christ to change their lives.  Our walk matters!!!!

Ephesians 4: 17 says “This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind,”

When we come into relationship with the Lord God through Jesus Christ it changes us.  First, it changes our relationship status from being “lost, alone, hopeless,” to being “accepted, loved, part of the family of God”.  We have been saved by grace!!!!  That moment of transformation must be followed by a change of direction in our daily life.  Our “walk” changes, not just our spirit but our mind (soul) and body(flesh) begins to change as well.  Some of these changes happen super naturally while others must be learned.

Paul tells us that we should “no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk” because they are being led by their own carnal mind and thoughts.  Verse 18 tells us that their understanding is darkened, that they are separated from the life of God because of ignorance and blindness of heart…..he then tells us in v.20 “But you have not so learned Christ”. 

Our walk should reflect who and what we are following.  If we are truly on the path of God, we will follow Jesus Christ, His life and Word in spite of the modern culture and society. 

This isn’t always easy.  We face pressures from society to conform, we face pressures from friends and sometimes family to accept that which the Word says is unacceptable and we face pressures from politicians and those who govern to be tolerant of lifestyles which is in opposition to the Word of God, with the threat of breaking the law.   We are not called to walk in conformity to the world and the things of the world.  We are called to conform to the ways and truth of Jesus Christ as revealed in His Word regardless of what society thinks, says or does. 

It is not always an easy path, but it does offer great reward at the end of the road. 

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, help me walk the path of Your Son, my savior, Jesus Christ so that my life will shine the Light of Jesus to a dark and hurting world.  Help my life be the salt that changes those around me thru the presence and power of Jesus Christ.  In His Name. Amen.