Live Contrary

We don’t hear the word "contrary" very much but when Mama said to me “don’t be so contrary,” I knew her meaning: don’t be so stubborn and defiant. She was talking about my general attitude! There is, however, honor in contrariness as it pertains to holiness: “Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on The Lord from a pure heart.” (2 Timothy 2:22). To be contrary is to perversely disagree or do the opposite of what is expected or desired, and this is exactly what Paul admonishes Believers to do. Live in opposition to your sinful nature and what the world encourages. Believers must not embrace the if-it-feels-good-do-it or follow-your-heart or it’s-your-life-live-it philosophies. A true disciple of Jesus Christ rejects the world’s pattern of thinking and lives in contrast – in contrariness – to the world. Very simply, we exchange sinfulness for holiness! Oh, yes, I knew exactly what my Mama meant – shape up, girl, change your attitude. Contrary living – rejecting the world’s way – honors God and is exactly to that which Believers are called. Prayerfully, by God’s Grace ... live contrary.