Unfortunately, many Christians around the world today are facing persecution for refusing to renounce their faith in Jesus Christ. For the most part living in America keeps Christians safe from experiencing physical or mental torture because of their faith. However, the fact remains that there is a growing sense among believers that they don’t quite fit in with those around them at work, at school and even in our neighborhoods. Their values and lifestyle seem to be a little different and they sometimes even face scorn and contempt. While it may difficult or uncomfortable to be different, we know that God’s Word tells us not to be friends of the world.


In Hebrews 11:13 Old Testament men of faith are described as ‘strangers and pilgrims on the earth’. And in Psalm 119 the psalmist declares that ‘I am a stranger on earth’. (v. 19). Like the psalmist, as servants of God, we are called to be different from those around us. But how do we do this?


In I Thessalonians 5:1-28 Paul gives us practical instructions on how to be different from the world around us. Paul tells the brethren in verse 4 that they are not in darkness as the world is but “ye are all children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness”. (v.5). Our lifestyle is to be totally different from those around us. In verses 12-15 Paul tells us to treat others with respect, looking for the best in others and doing our best to bring it out. He notes in verse 15 that kindness should be a distinguishing feature in the life of every Christian. Even little acts of kindness can change our relationships with others. Because we are citizens of a different world (heaven), Paul describes our language to be joyful, prayerful and thankful. (v.v. 16-18). Instead of always complaining, we should give thanks to God and others in little things and in big things.


In the 4th chapter of the epistle of James, he tells us in verse 4, “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” While it may be a daunting task, may we dare to be different from the world in which we live. And may others see the love of Christ reflected in us by our words and actions. Thankfully, we can draw on the power of the Holy Spirit to not be drawn into the snares of the devil’s evil and wickedness in this foreign land.