Counter Culture Christianity

The world is impressed by status.

Since the beginning of human history, man has wanted to be better than his peers.

And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.Genesis 4:4-5

Comparison is a result of pride.

For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.2 Corinthians 10:12

We are foolish to think that God uses the same metrics as the world to measure success.

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.Isaiah 55:8-9

God is impressed by the heart.

When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.Matthew 8:10

But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.1 Samuel 16:7

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.Hebrews 11:6

In God’s economy, the way up is down.

And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.Matthew 23:12

Love for others rules over all.

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.John 13:34-35

Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;Matthew 5:43-44

Service is the opportunity for greatness.

Humility is the path to exaltation.

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.James 4:10

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:1 Peter 5:6

Pursuing Jesus, not things, is the way to get things.

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.Matthew 6:33

What impresses the world must be counted as a loss to gain the joy found in Christ.

Are you pursuing the world’s success or accolades?

Is God pleased with your life?

What in your life have you learned is a loss, not a gain?

What in your life is holding you back from fully pursuing Christ?