Strangers in the World
They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
John 17:16
As a Christian, do you see this world as your home, or do you see yourself as a stranger in a foreign land? What is the purpose of Jesus telling us that we are not of this world when we live in this world? Every command in the Word is for our benefit and originates from his love for us, therefore we are blessed if see we ourselves as strangers in the world.
God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth. (John 4:24) What does it mean to worship in spirit and truth? Our lives are worship to the Lord and we are spiritual beings living in temporary physical suits. Worshipping in the spirit means the thoughts from our hearts are focused on God. Worshipping in truth is understanding God and how to worship him.
For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philippians 3:20) Knowing life is temporary, and this world is not our home but heaven is our home, we can be eternally minded in our earthly life. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. (Colossians 3:2) When our mind is on things above it means we see our lives and the events in our lives from the spiritual view and we handle them with eternal wisdom.
How is life when we live for eternity and we see ourselves as strangers in the world, knowing it’s not our home? We experience the life the Lord promised us, life to the full. I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:10) Things of this world no longer weigh us down but are just things the Lord walks us through and uses to mold us to be more Christ-like. Therefore everything in life works for our good. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28) This doesn’t mean everything is good, but God works it for our good.
Being eternally minded in a temporary world with heaven as our home, enables us overcome fear and live with the peace and joy that God has for us, and to minister to people with love and wisdom. We are strangers in this world because we are citizens of heaven. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:29) Let the Lord carry you through this foreign land to your home in heaven.
Today see yourself as a stranger in this world because you are holy and walk in the ways of God, and not in the ways of the world. Enjoy the world as God intended and be a light to every soul God puts in your path. You may be the only Christ-like person with a loving caring heart they will ever know. When you get to heaven God may point to the people you led to eternal life.
Prayer: Lord this world is not my home and I am a stranger in this world. Guide me to free people who are in bondage to the world, and point them to freedom in your kingdom. Thank you for your perfect love and compassion, and for the Holy Spirit who guides me to reflect your love and compassion to others. Thank you for changing me and making more Christ-like. In Jesus name, Amen