Title: Be The Right Person, Not Just A Good Person

I want to share a message that has been in my heart lately. We're often told to be good people, but I want to challenge you to be the right person. Now, you might be thinking, "Aren't they the same thing?" The answer is NO.

1. Understanding Right vs. Good

First, let's understand the difference. Being good often means following rules, doing what's expected, and generally being a pleasant person to be around. But being right – that's about aligning with God's purpose for your life. It's about making choices that reflect not just societal standards, but God's standards.

Scripture: Matthew 7:21-23 (CSB): Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.

22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in your name, drive out demons in your name, and do many miracles in your name?’

23 Then I will announce to them, ‘I never knew you. Depart from me, you lawbreakers![1]

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven."

This verse reminds us that it's not just about saying the right things or appearing good; it's about truly living in God's will.

Let me illustrate this for you.

Example: Social Media Behavior

HERE is an example call her Emily, who is very active on social media. She posts beautiful photos, gets lots of likes, and always seems to say the right things. To her peers and to the world, Emily appears to be a very good person. She follows the societal rules of being pleasant and likable online. But let's look a bit deeper.

Emily sometimes posts things that aren't entirely true to make her life look more exciting. She also occasionally joins in when others are gossiping or bullying someone in the comments, though she feels bad about it later. In these moments, Emily is being good by societal standards – she's fitting in, she's popular, and she's not rocking the boat.

However, is she being the right person according to God's standards? Not quite. Being the right person in this scenario would mean aligning her actions with biblical values. It would involve being honest in her posts, refraining from gossip or unkind words, and maybe even standing up for someone who's being bullied.

The scripture in Matthew 7:21-23 challenges us to look beyond the surface. It's not enough for Emily to simply call herself a Christian or appear good on social media. What truly matters is if her actions reflect God's will – if she's making choices that align with God’s standards of honesty, kindness, and integrity.

In essence, the difference between being good and being right is about the heart's alignment with God's will. It's about living authentically according to God's word, not just conforming to societal expectations or doing things for appearances.

2. who do we have as an example

Jesus is our perfect example of being the right person. He was good, yes, but more importantly, He was right. He always aligned His actions with God's will, even when it was tough.

Scripture: John 6:38 (CSB): "For I have come down from heaven, not to do my will, but to do the will of him who sent me."

3. The Trap of People-Pleasing One of our biggest stumbles

One of the biggest challenges in being the right person is the temptation to please people rather than God. It's easy to fall into the trap of doing what makes us popular or accepted, rather than what's right in God's eyes.

1. **Academic Honesty vs. Cheating for Grades**

- Young adults might face pressure to cheat in exams or assignments to get higher grades, as this brings peer admiration and parental approval. However, choosing academic honesty over cheating, even if it means getting a lower grade, aligns with God's expectation of integrity and truthfulness.

2. **Career Choices Aligned with Values**

- Often, there's societal pressure to pursue certain high-status or high-paying careers. A young adult might feel tempted to follow this path even if it conflicts with their personal values or God-given talents. Choosing a career that aligns with their Christian values and God's calling, even if it's less prestigious or lucrative, is a way of seeking God's approval over that of society.

3. **Peer Pressure in Social Situations**

- In social settings, young adults might face pressure to engage in activities like excessive drinking, drug use, or promiscuity because it's considered 'cool' or 'normal' among peers. Resisting this pressure and choosing to live a life that honors God's teachings, even if it leads to temporary unpopularity, is a true reflection of seeking God's approval.

4. **Use of Social Media**

- The desire for likes, followers, and online validation can lead to portraying a false, more appealing life on social media. Choosing to be authentic and honest on these platforms, sharing struggles as well as triumphs, and avoiding gossip or cyberbullying, even if it means fewer followers, is a way of valuing God's view over the world's.

5. **Relationship Choices**

- Young adults often feel pressured to be in a relationship or to conform to certain standards within a relationship because of societal norms. Choosing to engage in relationships that are respectful, pure, and based on Christian principles, rather than just following what peers consider 'normal' or 'expected', is an example of prioritizing God's standards over societal approval.

Scripture: Galatians 1:10 (CSB): "For am I now seeking the approval of people, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ."

4. The Courage to Stand Alone SO WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE BEING THE RIGHT PERSON.

Being the right person sometimes means standing alone. It takes courage to stand up for what's right, especially when everyone else is going the opposite direction. Remember, God is always with you.

1. neliness or Isolation: When you make choices that are different from those around you, you might feel alone or isolated. Friends or peers may not understand your decisions, leading to a sense of separation. 2. Misunderstanding or Judgment: Others might misunderstand your intentions or judge your actions. They may perceive your choices as judgment on their lifestyles, even when your aim is simply to live according to your faith. 3. Peer Pressure: There’s often significant pressure to conform to the norms and behaviors of your social group. Resisting this pressure and adhering to your beliefs can be challenging, especially when it goes against the grain. 4. Internal Conflict: You may experience internal struggles and doubts. Balancing your desire to fit in with your commitment to your faith can lead to inner conflict, questioning, and the need for deep reflection and prayer. 5. Criticism or Hostility: In some cases, standing for what’s right can attract criticism or even hostility from others. This could range from mild teasing to more serious opposition or exclusion. 6. Temptation to Compromise: The temptation to compromise your values for the sake of convenience, acceptance, or success can be strong. It’s often easier to blend in than to stand out. 7. Professional Challenges: In your career or educational journey, there may be times when you're faced with ethical dilemmas or pressures that challenge your values. Standing firm in such situations might affect your professional relationships or advancement. 8. Emotional and Spiritual Challenges: This path can be emotionally and spiritually taxing. It requires constant faith, prayer, and reliance on God for strength and guidance.

Scripture: Joshua 1:9 (CSB): "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

5. Impacting the World SO THIS LEAD TO THE IMPACT YOU HAVE TO THE WORLD

When you choose to be the right person, you impact the world in ways you can't even imagine. You become a light in the darkness, a light of hope and truth.

Scripture: Matthew 5:14-16 (CSB): "You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven."

1. **Influencing Others Positively**: Your choices and actions, rooted in Christian values, can inspire others. People notice when you live with integrity, kindness, and love, especially in challenging situations. This can encourage them to reflect on their own choices and perhaps begin their journey towards living a life more aligned with God's teachings.

2. **Spreading Hope and Encouragement**: In times of difficulty or despair, your steadfast faith and hope can be a source of comfort and encouragement to others. Your trust in God, even in tough times, can help uplift those who are struggling.

3. **Being a Role Model**: Especially for younger people or your peers, your life serves as a real-life example of what it means to live by faith. They see that it’s possible to navigate life’s challenges while staying true to Christian values.

4. **Creating a Ripple Effect of Kindness and Love**: Small acts of kindness, grounded in your faith, can have a far-reaching impact. You might never know how a simple gesture of love or a word of kindness can transform someone's day or even life.

5. **Advocating for Justice and Truth**: Standing up for what is right, according to God’s will, often means being an advocate for justice and truth in your community. This can involve speaking up for those who are marginalized or acting to correct injustices.

6. **Fostering a Spirit of Forgiveness and Reconciliation**: In a world where grudges and revenge can be commonplace, choosing to forgive and seek reconciliation reflects the heart of Christ's message and can profoundly impact those involved.

7. **Building a Stronger Community**: Your actions contribute to a stronger, more compassionate community. Whether it's in your church, workplace, or neighborhood, living out your faith actively contributes to a sense of unity and mutual support.

8. **Reflecting Christ’s Love**: Most importantly, by living as the right person, you become a tangible reflection of Christ’s love in the world. This isn’t just about following rules; it's about embodying the grace, love, and compassion that Jesus showed.

In all these ways, as Matthew 5:14-16 describes, you don’t just keep your light hidden but let it shine brightly. It’s through these everyday actions and decisions that you illuminate the world, guiding others towards the love and truth of God.

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Strive to be the right person. It's not always the easiest path, but it's the path that leads to true fulfillment and purpose in Christ. Remember, it's not just about being good in the eyes of the world; it's about being right in the eyes of God. God bless you all!