The Normnot Series: NORMNOT vs...

We are born into a world where the pleasures of man do not align with those of God, our creator. We live in a world that idolizes violence, money, media, perversions, and political incorrectness. Really, at any given moment you can turn on the TV and catch news broadcasting about any of those areas. Terrorism, murders, scandals or violence because of the “all mighty dollar”, media reporting untruths to segregate people, inappropriateness on networks for our children to see, and last but not least, being offended by anything and everything, mostly by those things we believe as the written Word. I could go on and on but I think you get the picture; the world has some serious issues that need tending to and it forces us to be different than the norm.

Living in this world can be hard and doing God’s work in this type of world can be even more difficult. In Matthew 5:13 – 16, Jesus tells us that we are the salt of the earth. He says that if salt loses its taste it is not good for anything except being thrown out and trampled under peoples feet. Whoa!!! Think about that. If we become bland in spirit, we cannot fulfill His plan for our lives, so therefore, we’re not good for anything. He then goes on to tell us that we are the light of the world. We have been called to let our light shine before others so that they may see our good works and give glory to our Father in Heaven.

But how are we to be the light in such a dark world? There are many different answers to many different situations on the matter, but for time sake, let’s look at three areas where we can be a torch of hope for this dark world. First and far most, begin shining your light at home. During our daily grind, home can be chaotic. Calm things by having what we Normnots call, Read & Lead sessions. This simply means to read the bible and respond to it by leading by example for your family. Doing this will instill a furnace of a light for yourself to help battle the at home disruptions.

The second are that you can impact is your place of work. Most organizations are hush-hush regarding faith or religion. This may be the toughest platform for you to shine for Jesus. Start by not shying away from someone that want to share their story with you as this may become an opportunity for you to pray for that person or fellowship with other believers. Believe me, the opportunity is far and few between for coworkers to share their beliefs so take advantage of the opportunity. Also, carry yourself in a humble manner and respond to conflict with compassion. Remember, the bible calls for us to be quick to hear, slow to speak or become angry. How we model ourselves or, “let our light shine” before men should model after Jesus. As a believer and fellow Normnot, our actions are always subject to criticism, so lets shine the brightest in that area. There isn’t a better place to begin being the salt of the earth than at your place of work.

Last but not least, be a light in your community. Normnots get involved. Most every city has a need for volunteers with many agencies. Find out how you can be a part of your community through your church, local school or college, food banks or an organization that is centered to help the elderly. Pray and ask God for His direction to help you determine which agency you could have the best impact. Your involvement is greatly needed in a time where being unselfish is almost obsolete.

Going against the world is a war that we can win battle by battle with prayer and actions. Being a Normnot is about that journey, transformation and a continued commitment to not conform to the ways of this world.