Conforming Our Hospitality to God’s Will

Examining Scripture:

“And be not conformed to this world:
but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind,
that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable,
and perfect, will of God.”
Romans 12:2

Evaluating Soil:

Okay, I know it’s still winter. But, let’s grab our favorite hoodie and blanket, pour some hot tea, and pull up a shell chair on the porch.

As Christian women, who desire to live holy lives and “prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect, will of God,” let’s consider where our heads and hearts are when we’re mingling with family and friends. What type of hosts or guests are we?

Do we ever find ourselves disguising or diluting our holiness to conform to the societal standards of hospitality? Do we tuck our faith safely away to avoid detection or deflect ridicule at gatherings?

It seems natural to want to fit in and be part of a group. But, that can cause us to compare ourselves to others and conform to the trends of society and social media rather than behave as God wants.

When we lower our standards we set a precedent that we’re willing to conform to gain new relationships or to retain old ones. It implies that we’re not fully committed to what we say we believe.

Experiencing Seasons:

It’s hard to be a non-conformist and do right, especially when it means sitting alone. No one wants to be labeled as a goodie-two shoes, religious nut, know-it-all, or people-pleaser.

My choice to follow God’s instructions has often left me socially alienated and has cost me invitations and inclusion. It hurt more when I was young and didn’t understand being left out. As an adult, I’ve become more confident in my desire to please God and less influenced by peer-pressure.

Sadly, there were occasions when I wanted to hide my faith, blend in, and not be held to God’s higher standards. I’ve also never enjoyed when my spiritual commitments make others feel ashamed, uncomfortable, or convicted by their behaviors.

However, when I read God’s Word and see how we should behave, I can’t hide my faith and conform or concede to wrongdoing. Holiness can’t be hid in my heart. It must be displayed every day in my home and hospitality too.  

Embracing Solace:

Peace and comfort come with knowing we please God instead of others. Social satisfaction is limited when we follow the ways of the world.

Enjoying Simplicity:

Conforming is complicated. It takes effort and energy to go against what we know is right or to do what we know is wrong. Entertaining God’s way is much easier than trying to fit in and measure up.

Employing Solutions:

Godly hospitality takes conscientious intention.

When preparing to host or attend an event, the best way to stay conformed to God’s will and live what we believe, is to set spiritual parameters from the start. To promote purity and morality, its best to consider:

• who we’ll be mingling with
• where the event is hosted
• what type of entertainment will be offered
• why we should or shouldn’t participate

When we renew our minds and align ourselves with God’s Word, it transforms us. This transformation causes us to participate with others in Godly ways.

Hospitality is one way we can show that we’re conformed to God’s will. It’s also a beautiful opportunity to share God’s love with the world.

Bring It Home

What are some ways your hospitality helps others see God in you?

Praying for you as we grow together,
Smiles, BRC