Every day, a new teaching, approach, or philosophy of life is born in the world that tries to usurp the truth. But as followers of Christ, we are called to resist external influences contrary to God’s will. Today, in our Daily Devotional for April 19, let’s explore how we can resist external influences on faith, stand firm in our faith, and maintain our integrity amidst the myriad of voices seeking to shape our values and behaviors.
Daily Devotional for April 19
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)
Resist External Influences on Faith
Every day, you face a barrage of expectations—from the workplace, relationships, and even cultural norms. These expectations often push you towards conformity, urging you to mold your values and behaviors to fit into others’ molds.
However, to resist external influences on your faith, you must first recognize that your primary commitment is to God and His Word.
The Example of Jesus
Jesus Himself provides the perfect model for this. Throughout His ministry, He encountered people from all walks of life, each with their expectations of Him. Yet, He never swayed from His mission or compromised His values to please others.
Instead, Jesus transformed those around Him by steadfastly living out His Father’s will. His consistency and integrity eventually commanded respect and admiration, even those who initially opposed Him.
Being Your Own Person in Christ
To live out your faith authentically, you must embrace your identity in Christ and the unique path God has set before you. This means sometimes saying no to others to say yes to God. It involves recognizing your limitations and understanding that it’s not your responsibility to meet everyone’s expectations.
True confidence and freedom come from this realization.
Devotional for every day here: Daily Devotional
Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, help me to resist external influences on my faith and to live true to the calling You have placed on my life. Please grant me the courage to stand firm in my beliefs, even when faced with opposition or the temptation to conform. Strengthen me to follow Jesus’ example, transforming my environment rather than being changed by it. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
To You
Where do you feel the most significant pressure to conform? How can you resist these external influences and align more closely with God’s expectations for your life?
My brother, remember that your strength lies not in pleasing everyone around you but in pleasing God. By resisting external influences on your faith, you affirm your commitment to what is eternal and unchanging, finding true fulfillment in your walk with Christ. Amen.
