As Christians, we are called to embody a distinctive way of life. Our beliefs and values are at the very core of our faith. As followers of Jesus Christ, we must embrace holiness. Our very words, thoughts, and actions should reflect God’s character as we live in accordance with His will.
Christians are called to be the salt and light of this world, to shine through darkness. When you embrace the teachings of Christ and endeavor to serve Him, you bear witness to the transformative power of the gospel.
From violence and poverty to addiction, illness, trauma, and abuse, we have a role to play in this broken society. We must maintain integrity and resist conformity. However, that can sometimes be difficult to do because we all want to feel like we belong. But at what cost? Your salvation?
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.” Romans 12:2 NIV
You were created in the image of God. Being set apart means aligning your thoughts, attitudes, and actions with God’s character of love, righteousness, and compassion. If you believe that you are a citizen of the Kingdom of God, then surely you should live according to the values and principles of the kingdom.
Don’t withdraw from the world, but rather engage it in a way that demonstrates who God is and who one can become with Him. Be an example. Live faithfully, lovingly, and authentically in a world that desperately needs the hope and redemption found in Jesus Christ.
Here are nine things all Christians should avoid if they desire to walk righteously:
Judging Others
Jesus strongly admonished those who judged others. In Matthew 7:5, he called them hypocrites for not seeing their own faults. The same grace and forgiveness that were extended to you by God should be given to others.
No man is without fault. This is why Jesus emphasized the importance of humility and self-awareness and cautioned against the hypocrisy of judging others while ignoring your own shortcomings.
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Matthew 7:1-2 NIV
In our limited understanding, we lack the authority and wisdom to pass a final judgment on others. Also, harsh judgment ruins good relationships. You are called to pursue peace and reconciliation, so let’s build each other up rather than tear one another down.
Smoking and substance abuse
While the Bible doesn’t specifically mention smoking, it does command us to not let our bodies become ‘mastered’ by anything. What might start as a seemingly harmless habit could turn into a brutal addiction, negatively affecting the user and those around them.
These substances damage your body and, in that way, dishonor God. Respect your body as the temple and prioritize your health. Show that you care about what God has entrusted to you.
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 NIV
Apart from the physical ramifications, think about the mental and emotional consequences you experience when you develop a dependence on these poisons. You are called to pursue peace, joy, and self-control.
Gluttony
Overindulgence can lead to physical and spiritual harm because it undermines the fruit of self-control. Gluttony distracts you from pursuing a relationship with God because you begin to crave the very thing you idolize. This then leads to a lack of discipline, affecting all areas of your life.
“Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” Proverbs 23:20-21
Gluttony is a work of the flesh and, therefore, is in direct contrast to the fruits of the spirit. The nature of overindulgence can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and unrest. It goes against God’s design for healthy living and stewardship.
When you begin to idolize earthly pleasure over your devotion to God, it will detract from your relationship with Him and leave you feeling empty and discontent.
Arguing
Arguing disrupts relationships and can cause division. The Bible warns against quarreling and strife, as they rarely lead to understanding. As tensions escalate and entrench opposing viewpoints, it reflects poorly on your character.
Engaging in contentious behavior is unproductive and the opposite of being a peacemaker. Arguing often arises from a desire to be right. Rather than be right, be humble. Consider the esteem and interests of others.
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:2–3 NIV
Profanity and Coarse Language
Your words have power. You have the responsibility to choose words that are uplifting and edifying, honoring God in your speech.
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Ephesians 4:29 NIV
When you refrain from using language that may offend or harm others, you choose mindfulness and self-control. Reflect on your speech, honor God with your words, and be a positive example by selecting language that promotes truth, love, grace, and understanding.
Guard yourself against sinful behavior in a society that enables disrespect, anger, and negativity. Just because the culture calls for it doesn’t mean you have to do it.
Laziness
Diligence and hard work are virtues esteemed in the Bible. Laziness only leads to poverty and spiritual stagnation. You were given gifts and talents that are meant to be used to glorify God.
“A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.” Proverbs 6:10–11 NIV
Don’t neglect your responsibilities and obligations, whether in your workplace, your home, or your community. Cultivate a strong work ethic, embracing tasks with enthusiasm and diligence. Seek to use your time and talents wisely, and pursue
Drunkenness
Scripture warns against the dangers of drunkenness. It impairs judgment and leads to destructive behavior.
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” Ephesians 5:18 NIV
If we can’t live in obedience and always choose reckless disobedience, how can we expect to walk in righteousness and keep God’s commands? It goes deeper than just caring for your body.
Drunkenness leads to violence, sexual immorality, and other harmful behaviors. It traps you in a cycle of guilt, shame, and regret. Choose to prioritize sobriety and seek fulfillment and joy in God rather than temporary pleasures.
Sexual Immorality
God’s design for sex is one of purity and fidelity within the bounds of marriage. Sexual immorality, including adultery, premarital sex, and pornography, distorts God’s gift and leads to brokenness and harm.
Healthy relationships have boundaries and accountability. Sexual intimacy is a sacred gift from God. It’s intended to be between one man and one woman under the covenant of marriage. The consequences of having sex outside of the confines of marriage can be devastating.
“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually sins against their own body.” 1 Corinthians 6:18 NIV
Having sex carries risks. There is also the emotional pain, relational turmoil, and brokenness you’ll experience if it doesn’t work out. You should wait until you find someone who is compatible, faithful, and committed.
Gossip
Finally, there’s gossip. Several verses in the book of Proverbs condemn slander because it causes division. Gossip tarnishes a Christian’s reputation and undermines all efforts to spread the gospel. It contradicts values rooted in truth, love, and integrity.
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.” Proverbs 16:28 NIV
Whichever way you choose to look at it, gossip is sinful behavior. Scripture warns against the destructive power of the tongue. There are serious consequences for individuals and relationships that fall victim to gossip. It also breeds mistrust.
As a follower of Jesus, embrace holiness. Tasked with being the salt and light of this world, despite the challenges you face, maintain your integrity, resist conformity, and live out the principles taught throughout scripture. Choose to live faithfully and experience the peace of God.
These small actions may seem inconsequential, but they have a huge impact on those around you.
Those who practice their faith will be fruitful. Your faith can draw others to God. Your faith can inspire others to deepen their relationship with Him. Be the kind of Christian who contributes positively and whose actions reflect kingdom values.