Why is it so Difficult to Live Godly in this World?

Why is it so difficult to live godly in this world?

The thinking of this world contradicts fundamental principles of godly character. Godliness is not simply about doing or not doing specific things. Godliness is about developing a character and personality that seeks God. More than what you do, godliness is about what you are. Of course, what you are will ultimately determine what you do.

Consider the following qualities of character God calls for that are the complete opposite of what 21st century thinking suggests:

Godliness calls for faith in God by confidence and trust in His word. The world tells you the Bible is an old book, not to be trusted. Rather you must believe in yourself.
Godliness teaches to seek first the kingdom and will of God. The world entices with material things and physical pleasure.
Godliness tells us to put others first and in humility to become the servant of all. The world advises you to look out for yourself because nobody else will.
Godliness demands a forgiving spirit that never takes vengeance. The world shouts vengeance, retaliation and “take nothing off of nobody!”
Godliness commands: love your enemies … do good to those who abuse you. The world shows us how to get them before they get us.
Godliness teaches soberness, self-control and righteousness. The world encourages you to let go, have fun, satisfy your heart’s desire.
Godliness calls for honesty, integrity and sincerity. The world convinces us to get all we can get – everybody lies.
Godliness is patient and kind. The world is aggressive and demanding.
The list goes on…

A worldly-minded person can be kind when he wants to and when he feels like it, often to his own advantage. A godly person is a kind person, always. That is what he will be in all situations, even to his own hurt. It is impossible to produce consistent righteous, godly behavior without having godly character.

We are called to be like God. That demands a fundamental change in our character and personality. We cannot live a godly life without a change of heart. Becoming a disciple of Christ demands that we hear and follow His teaching, believe and trust His message and repent (turn from the world to God), changing our mind and behavior. Finally, we need to be baptized for the forgiveness of all sins.

If you would like to study this question some more, give me a call. Don — 212-729-8356