STANDING . . .

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,”says the Lord. Therefore,“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.(Romans 12:14-21)

If these words were read at a political speech, at a rally in downtown D.C., or a college or high school graduation today, there would be more than a few shaking heads and angry tweets! "Don't curse"? "Bless those that hurt us"? "Help those that hurt me"? "Oh, I got that "help" alright!!!!" Let's face it, living by THE Book is not quite like living by the books, the TV, or social media today. If we do, we are in the minority and not a part of any popular group. We find ourselves alone and many times on the defensive. . . and that is JUST how it is supposed to be!!! We as CHRIST-followers are NOT of this world. To truly be "blessed" (Matthew 5:1-16), we are called to be different. It was not meant to be easy to walk as a believer in the Messiah. It was not easy for Him as you might recall. He was murdered unjustly for doing the right thing! We must die every day to this world as we live for Him and His purposes. The world needs to see something different, not CHRISTians attempting to "fit in". We are the "called out" ones (1 Peter 2:9-12). . . "called out" of political parties, cultural movements, popular protests, mass movements, and mob rules. We are called to stand for Christ and His principles; even as we STAND alone.

So where do we STAND today and for WHOM?