CHOOSING
Today's reading:  Nehemiah 10-13

"The rest of the people-the priests, the Levites, gatekeepers, singers, Temple servants and all who had separated themselves from the pagan people of the land in order to serve God, and who were old enough to understand-now all heartily bound themselves with an oath.  They vowed to accept the curse of God if they failed to obey the law of God as issued by his servant Moses.  They solemnly promised to carefully follow all the commands, laws and regulations of the Lord their God."  Nehemiah 10:28-28 NLT

A choice to separate ourselves from the darkness of the world.

A choice to accept God's discipline when we sin.

Have you made such choices?

I'll be honest, it's a scary oath to take.  It's a separation from things that are sometimes comfortable, inviting and familiar.  It's asking to be held accountable.

If I'm blending into the world, then I'm not shining for Jesus--it won't work both ways.

If I'm leading a life of ups-and downs--I've not anchored myself to Christ.

If it's easy, comes naturally or draws people because of how I'm going about all of it or how well I look as I live it--it's probably not genuine. 

If the world doesn't see me as a little different, unusual or standing out in the crowd--I've not made the right choices!