Peculiar on Purpose: Living in the World, Not of It

Dear diary,

In today’s Western society, it’s easy to claim the name of Christ. A witty bumper sticker, a small cross necklace, or a passing comment can all serve as declarations of faith. And while I love how boldly we can express it, the real question is this: if someone watched your life on mute, would they see a difference between how you live your life and how the world lives theirs? As believers in Jesus Christ, we are called to live in this world but not be of it. Through actions, standing out, and fixing our eyes on Jesus, we will do just that.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words.

Throughout the Bible, we see examples of how actions represent who we are and what we believe. Abraham didn’t just say he trusted God—he was willing to sacrifice his son. Daniel’s friends didn’t just claim faith—they refused to bow and were thrown into a fiery furnace. And God didn’t just say He loved us, but as the famous John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave…” Your walk required both action and faith. Because we believe in Jesus, let us live as though we do—in our speech, in our actions, and in our interactions. Let us live as if we are new creations in Christ.

"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."

James 1:22

Stop Blending In.

I think it is natural for someone to want to blend in with the masses. In fact, it’s a science of survival. We see animals do this in the wild to protect themselves from predators. It’s so easy to just assimilate with the world because it’s safe. When you follow Christ and His teachings, you are naturally going to stand out because you are doing what the majority is not doing. When someone wrongs you, the world says to get even—but the Word tells us to turn the other cheek and pray for our enemies. For most people, not fitting in may feel uncomfortable, but the Bible calls us a “peculiar people.” That means we won’t always fit in—and that’s okay. The more comfortable you become with being different, the easier it is to stand firm without compromising for temporary approval from the world.

"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;"

1 Peter 2:9

Spiritual Richness in Christ Jesus.

There are spiritual blessings that come with being in the world and not of it. Naturally, the world will hate you, but Jesus already warned us about that. The great thing about it is that He has overcome the world. I want you to understand that when we become born again, we become a new creation, and the old has passed. The new creation that we are walking in, in Christ, is not a permanent resident of this world. Don’t focus so much time pouring into this temporary world that we forget to pour into what is eternal. I am not saying not to steward the people and places that God has placed in our lives, but I’m saying that as people not of this world, we have another home to think of, and we should sow in the Spirit and store our treasures in heaven. So give to those in need with joy. Live righteously with a full heart, and love with the love of Christ.

"Dear friends, your real home is not here on earth. You are strangers here. I ask you to keep away from all the sinful desires of the flesh. These things fight to get hold of your soul."

1 Peter 2:11

So each day, let us choose to live our lives through the power and work of the Holy Spirit. We don’t want a safe life, we want a saved life. Yes, we may stand out and walk alone at times, but the reward is greater than we could ever imagine.

Lord thank you for giving us the ability to be bold in you. I pray that we stand strong in the identity you have given us and I pray that we fix our eyes on you all the days of our lives. I give you all the glory and honor. Amen.

- xoxo God's Girl