BEING A CHRISTIAN IN A SECULAR WORLD? YES WE CAN!

Having to be in an environment that does not necessarily supports one’s lifestyle would be quite challenging for anyone. This is especially true of this Christian life.

We live in a very cold and brutal world – a sinful world one would say. As Christians, more so young people, we are oftentimes compelled by our peers, popular fads, and even family members to engage in things that displeases God. We are all at some point coerced by that friend to do something that we know is wrong; something that is contrary to what was taught at home, church etc. It may be smoking, gambling, sex, cheating in an exam, malice etc.

Notwithstanding this, we do have HOPE. Yes you can do it! We can most definitely tread this Christ-centered path amidst the hiccups and speed bumps along. Our confirmation comes from Philippians 4:13 “I can do ALL things through Him [Jesus Christ] who strengthens me.”

Here are 5 tips on how to survive as a Christian in this secular world:

1 TO CHURCH AND PARTICIPATE IN ACTIVITIES

If we are to become healthy young Christians we MUST find time to go to church – not just on a Sunday now. There are tons of fun activities one can participate in at church. Of course bible study and prayer meetings are essentials. You can also consider joining the choir (provided that one is at your church). You could also consider possible alternatives like the dance ministry, sign ministry etc. These activities will not just aid in our spiritual growth but also foster solid and long-lasting friendships. 

2 KEEP CHRISTIANS FRIENDS

As young Christians on this Christian journey, we must acknowledge our weaknesses and recognize that we cannot make it on our own. We therefore, need to surround ourselves with as many Christian friends as possible. Personally, it is always a great joy to know that I have friends who are always there to pray for and encourage me especially in my time of need.  Christian company will create an environment that facilitates your growth.

You may also need to sever ties with some unnecessary baggage you now call friends – those that encourages us to do wrong. By so doing, we will be better able to focus on that which is wholesome and Christly.

3 CLEAN YOUR CLOSET – GET RID OF THE GARBAGE!

We, young Christians, have a lot of distractions. These distractions come in all form and manner. It could be the type and content of the music we listen to on our electronic devices; the type of movies we watch. Ask yourself do I have mostly Gospel music on my phone/iPod/tablet etc.? Do most of the movies I watch contain Christian content? Would God be pleased with the things I do on the internet? Is God glorified in what I do? If your answer to any of these questions is ‘No’ then you have some cleaning to do.

4 MAKE QUIET TIME FOR GOD

More than anything – above all – if we are to ever live a healthy Christian life we MUST set aside time to commune with the source – Jesus Christ himself. How do we go about this? If you had not already, you might want to have a daily devotion in the mornings before setting out.  Or probably in the evenings before or after supper (or whatever time convenient to you). In this quiet time, you may want to read your Bible, listen to some Gospel or spirituals and read religious journals and magazines. Try not to have your activities limited to the aforementioned – be creative for your God. Do whatever the spirit leads because the whole point is to just have a part of your 24hours dedicated ONLY to God.

As we forge ahead, let us not forget to get involve in church activities, surround yourself with Christian who can help you along. Remember to also get rid of some of the unwholesome contents we consume and most of all make quiet time for God daily. Use these keys as a guide to living a pure and unadulterated Christian life in this secular world. You can do this!

In closing, let me share this scripture with you. It is from the Apostle Paul who wrote to young Timothy, his son in the faith: 1 Timothy 4:12 “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” (NKJV)

Regards,

Romario Ricketts

Methodist Youth Evangelist