Outward appearances

Those who want to make a good showing in external matters are trying to force you to be circumcised. They do so only to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. . . For neither circumcision nor u circumcision counts for anything. . . The only thing that matters is a new creation. (Galatians 6:12-15)

Everyone is concerned with the way things seem. Am I dressed right? Is the house clean? Do they like me? 

All dressed up and no where to go! Looking good on the outside but the inside is a mess. Accepted by everyone but never understood . . . Never really loved . . . No real purpose but to please everyone!

Paul reminds that our goal is not to fit in. It is not to be accepted by friends and family. It is not to be popular. The only thing that matters is if we are really and truly born-again . . . Have we been accepted by the Savior into His family? Have we accepted salvation on His terms?

There are many "in the church" but I am afraid very few "in the Body". Many are in the pews but not in the Word. True followers of Jesus Christ are not dying to fit in but striving to stand out . . . for Christ. We are not to blend in to the world for protection but to stand out and draw people to the One that draws us to Him. 

I choose to be the odd ball . . . The peculiar one . . . The one many do not understand . . . As long as God understands and is pleased! My life is not for everyone . . .