What steps can you take to uphold God's standards in your daily life? See the Call to Be Different “ ‘You must not follow the practices of the land of Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not follow the practices of the land of Canaan, to which I am bringing you. You must not walk in their customs.’ ” (Leviticus 18:3) • God draws a clear line: His people are to resist the surrounding culture’s patterns. • The command still rings true—every generation must choose whether to blend in or live set apart. Recognize Today’s Competing Customs • Entertainment that normalizes sin (Ephesians 5:3–4) • Sexual ethics opposed to biblical purity (1 Thessalonians 4:3–5) • Materialism and self-promotion (1 John 2:15–17) • Religion of self—“my truth” over God’s truth (Judges 21:25) Take Daily Steps That Honor God’s Standards 1. Start each morning in the Word. Read, meditate, and ask, “How can I obey this today?” (Psalm 119:9, 11). 2. Pray for discernment before decisions. Simple pause: “Lord, is this choice Egypt or Canaan, or is it You?” (James 1:5). 3. Filter media. What enters the mind shapes desires (Philippians 4:8). 4. Practice quick obedience. Act on convictions immediately—delayed obedience invites compromise (Luke 11:28). 5. Set visible reminders: a verse card on the dashboard, a phone wallpaper with Scripture (Deuteronomy 6:8–9). 6. Schedule weekly rest from the world’s noise—turn off screens, be still, listen for God’s voice (Psalm 46:10). 7. Serve someone daily. Self-giving love counters the culture’s self-focus (Mark 10:45). 8. Cultivate gratitude; it uproots covetousness (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Guard Heart and Mind with Ongoing Renewal “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). • Memorize key verses that answer areas of personal weakness. • Replace lies with truth aloud; hearing Scripture reinforces faith (Romans 10:17). • Sing worship songs that quote Scripture—truth set to melody lingers. Walk in Step with the Spirit “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). • Invite the Spirit’s control at every crossroads. • Note fruit checkpoints—love, joy, peace, etc. (Galatians 5:22–23). Absence signals a drift toward worldly customs. Choose Community That Spurs Holiness “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Surround yourself with believers who lovingly confront compromise (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Join a small group that studies Scripture, not opinion. • Seek accountability—one trusted friend who asks, “How have you resisted Egypt and Canaan this week?” Repent Quickly, Restore Joy “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us” (1 John 1:9). • The moment the Spirit exposes sin, name it, turn from it, and receive cleansing. • Restored fellowship fuels continued obedience. Live as a Signpost for Others “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). When daily choices reflect God’s standards, life itself becomes an invitation for others to leave Egypt and Canaan behind and follow Him. |
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