Living in the world, but not of the world

I had an epiphany this past week. I'm living my life OF the world instead of just IN the world. I have had strong convictions about the ever popular Facebook for a while now. I felt like God was telling me to take a break from it and all the potential drama it brings. I resisted. And resisted. And resisted. Truthfully, I'm addicted. Sure, there are worse things to become addicted to but this crazy addiction was changing me. And I didn't like who I was becoming. See, I joined Facebook a few years ago and it was great to be able to connect with old high school friends and keep up with friends and family that I don't see often. Unfortunately, it's become a site full of drama, whining, complaining, and generally distasteful words and actions. And, I am guilty of feeding into all of it. I'm disgusted at some of the things I've seen/read on Facebook and also ashamed of things that I have written myself. So, I deactivated my account. And, you know what? The world didn't end. There are still people posting statuses that are full of drama, whining, complaining, and distasteful words. But, I am no longer a part of it. And I'm happy. :)
During this epiphany, I read Romans 12:2.
"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." NIV

The world tries to squeeze us, as Christians, into a mold and if we are not alert and resisting the temptations, the world also has the power to form and shape us. In my case, into a person we don't want to be. The world (i.e. Satan) has an influence on our mind, on our emotions, and on our attitudes, and this influence ultimately shows in our conduct. Conduct begins with our attitudes, with our points of view, with our values, standards, and ideals. If those values, standards, and ideals contradict the way of God, we cannot resist the world's constant pressure to squeeze us into its mold. My Facebook conduct had become to contradict the way of God...the WILL of God in my life. And, I never want to willingly stray from that. So, I took a break from the one thing in my life that was holding me back from my God. And I don't regret it.

So, if you are here because you miss my postings on Facebook, don't expect the same rude comments that became the norm on my page. This blog will be about my family, my interests, my faith, and my journey to become closer to my Saviour.

In other news:

Joshua is 6 months old today!! I'll post later this week, after his checkup, with his 6 month stats and milestones. For now, I will leave you with this cute little fella laughing.