It can be difficult to pull away from the world and do things differently. For some people it is easier but for others it can be downright challenging.
There is the worry about what others will think. We don’t want to be viewed as “weird” or “different.” We just want to keep peace and so if we attempt something out of the ordinary, it will ruffle some feathers.
But what does God require? That we please men? That we do what is popular? No, He requires obedience to Him…no matter what.
In Acts 5:29, Peter makes it clear when he says, “It’s necessary to obey God rather than men.”
We can easily skip over this verse and not let it sink down deep. But it must if we are ever going to be victorious in this life as a believer. If we continuously give in to man’s ways or try so hard to not stand out that we become part of the crowd, we are missing out on some incredible blessings.
Is it easy to go against the grain? No, it isn’t. It may lead to trouble. It may lead to name calling or being made fun of. It may cause others to turn away from you. But this is really where the rubber meets the road. This is the true test of your relationship with God. If you can’t stand against others and do what He has asked of you, it is an indication of something in your relationship being weak.
There is nothing more empowering than to obey God no matter the cost. Even if there ends up being a price you pay, your soul is at rest because you have done the right thing. I have been on both sides. I have obeyed God and been ridiculed by others for doing it. While it hurt for a moment, it doesn’t compare to the eternal blessings I received.
But I have also chosen man over God and have felt my spirit grieve afterward. It is not a pleasant feeling and it is terrible to know that you can’t go back and change things.
Yes, it truly is necessary to obey God rather than men.
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