All through my childhood years, I have always heard that we ought to be set apart and not conformed to this world (Romans12:2). Although I understood what my elders were trying to relay to me, I also felt that they used the verse to keep us from mingling with the other denominations.
I was watching a sermon one night and the speaker used the same verse but put a twist to it that I have never heard before. What he showed this verse to mean was that there are many Christians who have become expert Chameleons. They have learned how to conform in every environment.
In the club they drop it like it’s hot, and in the church they praise Him like they’re crazy. They spend the week cursing up a storm, and at church they teach Sunday School class like they’ve been at the feet of Jesus all week. It is true that we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. However, this is no excuse to live a Chameleon lifestyle.
God has called us to be transformed and not conformed. When we are transformed, we change the atmosphere wherever we go. When we are conformed, the atmosphere changes us. As Christians, we are the salt and light of the world. We are the ones who ought to be changing the atmosphere. We ought to be the ones bringing change to the world and not the other way around.
Whenever we get in an environment where we are being conformed by the atmosphere, that is our cue to leave! The Bible calls us “…a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9 NIV).
Therefore, we are to act and live like we are a special people. Although we are called to be a separate people bringing change to the world, we are also called to be an inclusive people who share the Gospel message with all who would hear. Today, think about your environments, friends, job, family, etc. Are you living a transformed life or have you become a professional Chameleon Christian? If so, isn’t it time you decide to change your lifestyle and live a life that glorifies God?
I have always been one who tries to please everyone. One day, I woke up and realized that I was tired of trying to conform to everyone’s expectations. I realized that being me is who God created me to be; and if someone doesn’t accept me as God created me, then I am still going to love them and continue to be me. Resolve to be an authentic Christian wherever you go.
If you can’t be one where you are going, then don’t go. If you can’t be one around that group of people, stop hanging around them. Whatever will keep you from being true to God and inheriting the Kingdom, cut it or them off. Be transformed as of today!
Memory Verse:
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
-Romans 12:2 (NIV)
Prayer Prompt:
“Dear Lord, I am tired of trying to be everything to everybody. I am tired of trying to conform to all of my environments. Lord, transform me and teach me how to bring change to all of my environments. Give me the courage to walk away from the atmospheres that jeopardize my walk with You, especially in the area of…”
Contributing Writer:
Rachel Ineus
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