Live Differently

Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Matthew 5:48, CSB 

Right in the middle of His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus calls for His followers to act totally different from the rest of the world. He calls them to act in ways that contradict the natural tendencies of our human nature. 

Today let’s look at Jesus’ revolutionary ideas: 

• Be the one to initiate in reconciling a broken relationship (v.21–26). 
• Do not even think about committing sin. Intentionally avoid all sinful situations (v.27–30). 
• Do not go back on your word. If you make a commitment, then keep it (v.33–37). 
• Go above and beyond what people expect from you. Don’t settle for mediocrity when helping others (v.38–42). 
• Love your enemies. Do good to those who persecute you and pray for those who intentionally hurt you (v.43–48). 

Jesus asks us to live completely opposite to that which is normal or comfortable for us. This is undoubtedly a very difficult lifestyle, but it is exactly what will attract the attention of a lost world. Let’s blow some minds for Christ’s sake by putting these truths into practice! 

PRAY: Ask God to show you areas of your life where you need to trust Him and live differently. Ask Him for the strength to walk in obedience to what He shows you. 

ACT: Take the time to think about what truths from above you can put into practice every day of your life starting today. Let your one see something different in you. When they ask you about it, the Holy Spirit is opening a door to point them to Jesus.