The World is Watching!

“You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light…

“Beloved, I urge you… abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. Keep your conduct honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God…

“For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people…

“Wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct…

“If you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed… In your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,  having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.” 1 Peter 2:9,11-12,15; 3:1-2,14-16

“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

“Thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life… We are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us.” 2 Corinthians 2:14-16; 5:20a

The scriptures give many guidelines for conduct in a world that opposes righteousness and can be harsh against those who practice it. God’s economy proves that a godly witness stands out, and while many demean, refuse, and reject it, the Lord uses that witness to draw some to Himself. The Christian’s responsibility is to be faithful to the call and leave reactions and results for the Lord’s tending.

The Word of God is itself a window that opens to all readers realities of life. Not only does the Lord keep watch on everything, but the world watches His people with scrutiny. We need remember we live in light as His holy people, and walk here below in triumphant procession as His children.

Our conduct, in honorable doing and gentle attitude, should be giving off a pleasant fragrance to those drawn to Christ, and a stench to those who oppose Him. The Lord would have us be consistent, always ready to explain our hope and proclaim His excellencies while remaining pure and respectful. In watching ourselves, and taking care not to yield to pesky temptations, it is really the Lord whom we serve. (Colossians 3:23-24)

What reactions have we met when we exercise Christ-like conduct? How well are people around us able to see and sense the Lord’s presence in our words, care, and occupations? Do they whiff disinterest, aloof selfishness, or genuine love for Christ? How can we better reflect the motivations and character of Christ Jesus so the watching will want what we have?

Lord, as others watch me, keep me watching and honoring and reflecting You.