SEPTEMBER 20, 2 Corinthians 6:17

The Bible commands Christians, “Be ye separate”. But what are we as Christians to separate ourselves from? We are to separate ourselves from false teachings. We are to live holy lives before the Lord and also separate ourselves from this world and its values. As Christians, we are to be different from the rest of the world. Unlike other people who follow after the ways of the world, Christians are to follow what the Bible teaches them. To be separate calls for us to stand for Christ so that our faith is not compromised. Sometimes, we called to stand alone for Christ.

In the Old Testament, Daniel was only a youth when he “__________ {Unscramble UOESRPPD} in his heart...” (Daniel 1:8). He resolved not to defile himself with all the worldly pleasures in the king’s court. He wanted nothing to pollute or corrupt his mind and heart, whether it be through food or activities. You can be like Daniel. You can make the decision to stand alone now.

As Daniel was committed to being steadfast for God, he was prepared for the testings to come. When King Darius decreed that no one could pray to any god except him, Daniel would not compromise his faith. He had been living for God. So, he could stand alone publicly in this circumstance. He was always ready to stand alone for God.

Standing alone also makes us stand out in a world that is full of wrongdoing. Stand out as an honest and trustworthy person. This is good and pleasing to the Lord because He is righteous and cannot tolerate sin. Do not follow the crowd.

Thought: Why must you stand alone and stand out?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to keep myself holy instead of following the world’s ways. Give me courage to do this. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.