DON'T CONFORM TO THIS WORLD - Open heavens devotional by Pastor E. A Adeboye

BIBLE IN A YEAR: Ps 43 -45
DON’T CONFORM Tuesday, September 28, 2010
MEMORIZE: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:2) READ: Romans 12:1-2 Believers must not toy with anything evil. You must cultivate the habit of refusing or rejecting anything that can lead you to sin. If you refuse to connive with the fraudulent in your office to cheat on your organization, you will be called a fool. It is better to be a fool for Jesus than to be called a smart person by the world and end up in destruction. Proverbs 14:16 says, “A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident”. When the world calls you a fool, God calls you a wise son or daughter. What God says of you should be more important to you. Proverbs 1:10 talks of the possibility of being enticed. Whether you like it or not, you will be enticed into sin. But the same passage also encourages you not to yield to any sinful enticement. Some practical ways of overcoming temptations are: Avoid the meeting places of sinners. Avoid their joints. Such places include cinema houses, clubs, ball rooms and disco parties. Keep away from any riotous party or gathering. As a student, do not join in violent protests. You could be hurt for nothing. There are better ways of expressing views on your grievances other than violence. Similarly, severe the relationship with anyone capable of luring you into sin - no matter how friendly the fellow appears. If you feel more at home making friends with the opposite sex than those of the same sex, something is wrong somewhere. If you are comfortable in the company of unbelievers, rather than fellow Christians, then you are treading the wrong path. The reality is that, you tend to behave like those you follow or mingle with. Even among fellow believers, be selective of those you associate with - those who can stir you up to godliness, excellence and hardwork. Turn down every sinful suggestion and take your stand. Make no friend with anyone of doubtful character - such as an angry man (Prov. 22:24-25) or greedy fellow. Watch out for those who have a powerful influence over you and if it is an evil influence, break away. Study the Word and practice it daily. Be very prayerful and ask for the help of the Holy Spirit always. ACTION POINT: Thank God for missionaries in different mission fields. Ask the Lord to give them greater grace to be relevant to their communities. NB: SUPPORT THE WWW.10MILLIONEXERCISEBOOKS.COM PROJECT TODAY, A CHRISTIAN NON-PROFIT INITIATIVE TOWARDS ERADICATING ILLITERACY.