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“I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.” John 17:14

As believers, we are exhorted throughout the Bible to have an eternal perspective, setting our minds on things above, not on the things of this earth (Colossians 3:2). From the Old Testament writers to the Apostles’ letters, we’re told to keep our eyes on the Lord (Isaiah 26:3, Psalm 141:8, Hebrews 12:1-2). We’re called to be in the world, but not of it.

I don’t know about you, sister, but over the past 14 months or so, that’s been a real challenge. I feel like I’m constantly vacillating between being wholly focused on the Lord, His Truth, and doing His will and being obsessed by the societal madness going on around me—the likes of which I’ve not seen in my lifetime. It’s as if the “in it” and “of it” are duking it out on a daily basis to see who’ll be victorious.

Jesus promised us that we’ll have troubles in this world, so it’s not like anything (illness, job loss, cultural wars, or pandemics) should surprise us. We’re even commanded to be anxious for nothing. Moreover, regardless of what’s going on around us, we know Who wins in the end—so why worry and get all spun about it all, right? Easier said than done, for sure.

So, what’s the answer? As Christ followers, we have a solid Foundation on which to stand (1 Corinthians 3:11), an unchanging Strong Tower where we can run and be safe (Proverbs 18:10). We are citizens of Heaven, a Kingdom where Jesus is on the throne—no matter what’s going on around us. It’s on these facts that we must anchor our mind and heart. It’s clear. And simple. But it takes intention. Every morning, as we open our eyes, washed afresh with the new mercies of God, we must plant our feet on God’s Word. Instead of immediately opening our phone for the latest fear-mongering headlines or rabbit-hole-descending social media trail, let’s open our mouth in praise of God’s amazing grace and holiness.

It’s about surrendering each and every moment to the Lord. He is in control of the big picture and the smallest detail. And we have the Holy Spirit living in us to guide and counsel us…if we ask Him to. Although we can’t really put our head completely in the sand (even if it seems really tempting), we can look at what’s happening around us through the lens of eternity and the knowledge of Truth.

Until the Lord calls us home, sister, we are in the world. But by staying rooted in His Word, steeped in fellowship, and aware of every blessing He’s provided, we can certainly avoid being of the world.

“Thank you, Father, for every sunrise and sunset, Your amazing provision, and Your powerful Truth. Help me stay focused on You, so I remain a mere traveler in this world.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life