A LIFE DEVOTED TO RESPECTABILITY

PSALMIST CHALLENGE: PSALM 6-10

PROVERBS CAPSULE: PROVERBS 2

The love and the service of Christians result in respectable actions. For a convert, all things become new (see 2 Corinthians 5:17). This “newness of life” (Romans 6:4) is visible in the everyday activities of the church. As a member of God’s family, you will live as your heavenly Father wishes for you to live. Choosing to live the Christian lifestyle is not always comfortable or convenient. However, as an imitator of God, you should choose to live as God your Father expects you to live. You have been separated from the actions of the world (1 Peter 1:22). As a child of God, you must not take part in certain activities (2 Peter 3:14).

Some actions are not to be practiced, and some objectives are not to be sought by Christians (1 Timothy 5:22). The one who has been cleansed by the blood of Christ must stop making choices that lead to deliberate sin. Even as Christians, we are imperfect and continue to sin; but that is different from being so involved in worldly activities that we are unconcerned about sin. The change of behaviour after conversion is stressed by the imperative phrase “must not even be named among you.” In effect, the Bible commands, “Do not allow it to be mentioned even one time!” Some places are so unfit for the Christian to go that it is shameful and embarrassing even to talk of going to such places! (Rom. 6:21).

Strong emphasis is given because some places encourage behaviour that is not “proper among saints.” Respectability is governed by attitudes. Actions are the product of attitudes. The Christian’s attitude is to demonstrate purity. The Lord said that one’s words reveal the condition of his heart (Matthew 12:34–37). The representative of Christ must be careful of the language he uses. It is not to be “filthiness” (obscene, vulgar words) or “silly talk” (senseless words used without thinking of how they will impact those who hear). The Christian’s language must in sharp contrast with the speech of those surrounding him: It emphasizes purity and “the giving of thanks.” The new Christian must learn to discipline his tongue! This is a difficult task, but it can be done!

Unless one becomes a child of God and ceases the constant practice of sin, he will not enjoy “the inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God”. As one who has turned to Christ, you have God’s gracious forgiveness when you sin, and you have His firm assurance of a heavenly inheritance (Hebrews 6:18, 19). Finally, respectability is encouraged by associations. When you became a Christian, you had to turn away from sinful practices that you probably found enjoyable. Satan will continue to tempt you to return and enjoy these activities you left behind. Some of Satan’s strongest attempts to lure you back into the world will come through people in your past (1 Corinthians 15:33). If any former association would hinder your devotion to Christ, you should sever it (Matthew 10:34–39, 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18; 1 John 2:15–17).

Word Affirmation: “And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still." - Mark 4:39 (Don't just say it, mean it!)

“Unless one becomes a child of God and ceases the constant practice of sin, he will not enjoy “the inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God”."

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