As Christians, the main thing we think of when it comes to how we live out our faith is our behaviour. This is the thing that everyone sees, the thing by which we can be judged.
We are being watched by the world and we in turn watch them and compare their behaviour to ours. We at times can think we are better than them because we live to a higher standard. But do we?
Lets look at some areas in which we as Christians should be setting the standard with our behaviour.
Matt 5:27-28, it is common knowledge that in the Christian faith, adultery is a sin. It is one which people see as a big sin. However, adultery is not just physical, it can also be mental. This includes joining in when unbelievers are looking at someone in a lustful way, whether in person or an image. How can you claim to be different if you are joining in in this way. Really you should turn away, explain you have no interest. When they see that you don't join them in such things, they will know that you are different.
Forgiveness is at the foundation of the Christian belief, we are to forgive all who offend us. How we respond to those who wrong us doesn't begin and end with forgiveness.
In verses 38-42, we are told to turn the other cheek. How are we any different if we try to pay back every wrong doing? How many times have we lashed out when someone insults us? wanting to throw back an even worse insult. It may not be easy, but at times such as this we have to remember, 'turn the other cheek'. By showing that we are not going to stoop down to their level, we show the world that we have a different standard. This doesn't mean we let people walk all over us, it just means that we are not quick to react in a negative way.
It is so easy to look upon someone and thank God that we are not like them, just look at how the Pharisee of Luke 18:11 thought so highly of himself. Remember, as much as we watch those around us, they are also watching us. Lets ensure that what they see is God's standard.
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