Rev. Sherry Thompson - Swimming Upstream Against The World's Current

Romans 12:2 says "Do not be conformed to this world."  Simple, clear, and concise.  Paul says do not act like the sinful people of the world.  "Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Do not be conformed to this world (this age), (fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs)' (Amplified).  "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world" (New Living translation).  "Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mold."  When you choose to swim upstream against societies current you'll find yourself a true servant of God. Matthew 16: 25 (NASB) says: for whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for God's name sake will find it. This is when the Lord will move us toward our divine purpose. In dying to self, we find genuine life by depending on God, who provides much more than we can imagine.  Likewise, Jesus taught in John 12:24: "Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone, but if it dies, it bears much fruit" (NASB).  Part of the life that we find and the fruit we bear is not only living a richer life with God but also becoming more generous to others, reaching out to people with christ like love and joy. Truth brings peace and sets the captive free. Dying to self you discover so much more and become driven by eternity. This is when you leave an expression on society how to swim upstream againt the world's current and live a succeful christian life.  The world will see you as a powerful stick of dynamite, that uncovers the devils disguise, so you can be all God created you to be!