Living Faithfully in a Secular World
Living out our faith in today’s world can feel like swimming upstream. The values we hold as Christians often clash with what society promotes, and navigating that tension isn’t always easy. But as followers of Christ, we’re called to live differently, even when it’s hard.
Jesus Himself said in John 15:19, “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.” These words are a powerful reminder, especially on days when being a Christian feels lonely or misunderstood. They speak to the reality that following Jesus often sets us apart, but it’s in that separation that we find our true belonging—in Him.
The Challenge of Being Countercultural
We live in a world that often celebrates things that go against God’s Word. Whether it’s the pursuit of self over service, instant gratification over patience, or moral relativism over God’s truth, the world pulls us in directions that can feel overwhelming.
As a mom, wife, and woman of faith, I often find myself asking, How do I teach my children to stand firm in their faith when the world is pulling them in the opposite direction? How do I live out my faith boldly without fear of judgment?
The answer, I’m learning, is to stay rooted in Christ.
Staying Rooted in God’s Word
In a culture that constantly changes its definition of right and wrong, God’s Word remains our unshakable foundation. The Bible isn’t just a book of stories; it’s the ultimate guide for how to live a life that honors Him.
When I feel the pressure to conform, I turn to Romans 12:2: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This verse reminds me that my focus needs to stay on God, not on the ever-changing opinions of society.
Daily prayer, reading Scripture, and surrounding myself with godly community have been my anchors. They remind me that I’m not alone in this journey, and they strengthen my faith when the world feels too loud.
Leading by Example
One of the hardest parts of living counterculturally is standing firm in what you believe when it feels like everyone around you is doing the opposite. But our lives as Christians should reflect the light of Christ.
This doesn’t mean we have to preach at everyone we meet or argue over every disagreement. Sometimes, the greatest testimony is simply living with integrity, kindness, and love. People notice when you choose forgiveness over bitterness, patience over frustration, or truth over convenience.
As a mom, I want my children to see me living out my faith authentically. I want them to know that following Jesus isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.
Choosing Faith Over Fear
If I’m keeping it real—being countercultural can be intimidating. Standing firm in your beliefs might mean being misunderstood, criticized, or even ostracized. But Jesus never promised that following Him would be easy. In fact, He said in Matthew 16:24, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
The world may reject us, but God never will. He sees our struggles, our fears, and our efforts to live faithfully. And He promises to walk with us every step of the way.
When I feel fear creeping in, I remind myself that my worth isn’t found in the opinions of others, it’s found in Christ. His love and approval are all I need.
Finding Strength in Faith
If you’ve ever felt the burden of trying to live out your faith in a world that seems so distant from God, take heart—you’re not walking this path alone. We’re all in this together, and God has given us everything we need to stay the course and remain faithful.
Take heart in the words of Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
We’re not called to blend in with the world. We’re called to stand out, not for our own glory, but for His. Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus, trust Him to guide us, and live boldly for Him, no matter what challenges come our way.
Father, thank You for calling us to live for You, even when it’s hard. Lord, give me the strength to stand firm in my faith and to live boldly for You in a world that often pulls me in the opposite direction.
Help me to reflect Your love, grace, and truth in all that I do. Strengthen my heart when I feel weary and remind me that You are always with me. Thank You for Your unchanging Word and for the courage You give to follow You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
