The world, at least our country, has become very negative, depressed, gloomy, sad, pessimistic, and cynical this past year. From my perspective, it is pretty much media-driven.

One of the fundamental principles of being a follower of Jesus Christ is, “when the world is at its worst, we ought to be at our best.” our radical difference is our power.

When the world is “gloom and doom,” we ought to be “joy and peace.” The power of a Christ-follower is that our joy and peace are not based on circumstances; they are based on our hope of eternal life with Jesus. We have the power to live above the world if we choose to. It is sad to see the number of professed believers who are not choosing to live above the world but instead like it. When there is no difference, there is no influence.

I can choose to be joyful. I can choose to be thankful. I can choose not to grumble. I can choose to say thank you. Help me Lord to always choose what pleases You.

Psalms 96:1-3 Sing to the Lord a new song;
Sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Sing to the Lord, bless His name;
Proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day.
Tell of His glory among the nations,
His wonderful deeds among all the peoples.

Matthew 5:16 Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind,