Conforming to the worlds image

This world often wants you to conform to its way of thinking, speaking and behaving. In many cases such as work, it’s very hard to go against the grain; to do what you know is right and not follow what other people are submitting to out of fear. The pressure to conform is always fear driven, and this is how we know it’s not from God. Personally, I follow my heart and not every rule and regulation of man. Don’t get me wrong, I follow rules and regulations, but I’m not going to be a slave to mans’ every selfish and deluded desire. Romans 12:2 "Don’t conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you’ll be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

When you conform, you’re trying to become something you’re not. I understand that God is my provider and my boss is not, therefore I don’t work in fear that I’ll one day be fired or laid off. I simply do what I know is right in my heart. Proverbs 29:25 "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe." I often ask the Holy Spirit to guide my decisions, thoughts and speech and this is why I follow my heart, because I trust God. If you consume yourself with God, he’ll lead you and provide for you. John 15:5 "I’m the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he’ll bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."

Why is there pressure to conform?

There’s a battle for your life that’s been taking place since the day you were born. Your enemy, the Devil not only wants your soul for eternity, but he wants to devour your life on earth as well. 1 Peter 5:8 "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." God’s plan isn’t only for eternal security, but to also live a victorious-abundant life here on earth. John 10:10 "The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly."

When I consider the idea of a courageous man, who stands up for what’s true and doesn’t give in to the pressure to conform, I think of no other than William Wallace of Braveheart. He was filled with fire and passion in his heart for freedom that was fueled by the murder of his love. He defied the perverted rules of the kings and politicians of his land, even though it made him unpopular with some, it drew many to his side with an unshakable loyalty. Mr. Wallace was passionate and lead by his heart.

Holding your ground

We know the world will hate us, the bible tells us this. The temptation to conform lies not in the wonderful things the world has to offer, but instead a threat to our security; that the world will reject us. God tells us we can expect this and then assures us that he’ll be with us always. Matthew 28:20 "I’m with you always, even to the end of the age."

It helps me to know that God isn’t nervous or anxious. He tells us in Philippians 4:6-7 "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Then, the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Standing firm in the face of rejection and mockery is by no means easy; but if you do so, you’ll stand out as a man among men or a woman among women and God himself will deliver your Justice.

Copyright by Adam Curren

Biography

I studied marketing at the University of New Orleans before moving to Colorado Springs in 2006. I’ve been writing and editing since April 2008 and am passionate about spreading God’s word and principals. My goal is to transfer Gods word in a manner that not only engages the audience but challenges them to journey to the next level in their faith as well.

Please feel free to view more of my work at http://charactergrowth.com/ as well as http://www.ehow.com/