But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do. (1 Pet. 1:15)


LITTLE DID I KNOW that my coworker, Betty, was watching me, until one day she said, “There’s something different about you. What is it?”

“Well,” I replied, “I’m a Christian. I go to church. Do you go to church?”

“No. Christians are hypocrites. I don’t want to be any part of that. They talk a good talk, but their actions speak otherwise.”

It made me sad to think Betty based her decision to attend church on the actions of Christians. Yet, it wasn’t long before I became a contributing example. Being away from home, I was enticed to join some coworkers on their Friday night outings. My participation in questionable activities did not go unnoticed by Betty.

After a few months, Betty approached me again. “You know, I thought you were different from the rest, but you’re not. You’re just like them.” I tried to tell her I wasn’t but it was too late. My poor example had left a lasting impression.

When we become Christians, we change our behavior by becoming obedient to Christ’s teachings. We shouldn’t long for the way we used to live. As we clothe ourselves in Christ, we leave our sinful desires behind. When our minds are filled with the Word of God, there will be no room for temptation to hide.

Replace a sinful desire with one of Christ’s teachings.

Sheryl Baker lives in LaPorte, Indiana, and is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoys writing devotions that bring hope and encouragement to others.