We have a family unlike any other if we are in Christ. We have an older brother who always goes to bat for us. He went farther on our behalf than any earthly brother could.  And he calls us to love like him (John 13:34-35). The problem is we don’t always live out that calling. We’re too busy or being family is too messy or maybe too scary because you might get hurt. But you want family in your time of need. 

That blessing was always, from the beginning of time, to adopt us (Jews and Gentiles) into the family of God, through faith in Christ Jesus.

This standing out, looking different from the world around us, happens when we are breathing in and out the word of God each day.  “The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation (D.L. Moody).” God’s word daily transforms us to look more like our Father and less like the world.  As Joshua reminds us, the world may look enticing, but it is only a snare and a trap for our souls.