God will always lead you to do things that are opposite of what the world considers standard when it doesn’t align with Him or His word because He is our standard. His word is standard. He is the foundation and standard of which we should live by. 

What God says trump’s anything the world considers to be normal, right or fair. God’s word trumps what any man says that is in a position of power and authority who leads others in a way that is not aligned with God’s word. God’s word trumps any law put in place for citizens to follow and accept. God’s word trumps any personal beliefs that one may have. God’s word trumps all thoughts of “it’s not that deep”, “it doesn’t take all that”, “God knows my heart”, and the list goes on.

God’s word trumps all who may be offended. The truth is the word of God is offensive! It instructs us on what is righteous and what is unrighteous. It teaches us obedience and the consequences of disobedience.  If anyone is offended by Truth, they have to take that up with God. Anyone who rejects God or God’s word rejects God. Anytime you preach, teach and speak God’s word and people are offended, they are not rejecting you, they are rejecting God so don’t take it personal.

To whom can I speak and give warning? Who will listen to me? Their ears are closed so they cannot hear. The word of the Lord is offensive to them; they find no pleasure in it. Jeremiah 6:10 NIV

Remember that God has called for us to be set apart. Don’t be afraid to choose Him above all things. 

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭NLT‬‬

All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NASB

He may lead you to do things that may not make sense to you or that may lead others to judge you, talk about you, and even persecute you. Remember that Jesus said that just as He was persecuted, we would be also. 

“If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.“ John‬ ‭15‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Refuse to care about what others may think. Refuse to seek the approval of others and choose to obey God. Seek the approval of God and no one else. 

Obey God even when it doesn’t make sense. Don’t compromise. Stand on His word. Boldly declare His word. Share His word. Trust Him as He knows what’s best and know that there is a great reward in obedience.

What is your biggest challenge with following and living according to God’s standard?