“Going Against the Flow” Part 2: The Opposite Way

We all dream of going against the norm and being somebody different. There are so many people saying they’re going against the flow, when in reality they’re rushing out with the tide (“Going Against the Flow” Part 1: In the Same Direction). How do we stand out and how do we actually go the opposite way?

As image-bearers of God, this dream to stand out is the longing placed inside of us by God. We each have been called to be bearers of the Gospel, yet few choose to follow Christ’s commands.

“For many are called, but few are chosen.” -Matthew 22:14

 Going against the flow, away from the status quo, means to let go of false control and surrender ourselves to God. To go against the grain and reach for a higher goal is going to involve death to our own personal plans…but it issues forth life eternal. This is what will make us stand out, for our culture says to sinfully rebel in almost every aspect of our lives.

 “…What you sow does not come to life unless it dies.” -1 Corinthians 15:36b

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” –Matthew 5:16 

We must humble ourselves and realize that we actually do not make the difference. It is solely Jesus Christ who moves and breathes upon people’s hearts and transforms their lives.  Without Christ, we are nothing (see John 15:5).

“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” -John 6:63

“We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.” -Isaiah 64:6a

 Since He is self-existent, He doesn’t really need us, but He chose us to be used by Him. It is only through Christ’s power working through us that we are made different anyway. It is only by His people being obedient to His voice that we will see this world changed.

Do you want to go the opposite way? Then live your life surrendered to Christ in obedient worship to what He calls us to do.

This is the only way to go…the opposite way.