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

I want to remind us this morning of what Apostle Paul warned believers not to do. We tend to easily forget what the Word of God says and get swayed by trends.

In our last cell fellowship meeting, I asked a young girl, “If you were in an examination hall and your teachers came to you and gave you the answers to the questions you’re writing, what would you do?”

The young girl, with all sincerity, said, “Ah Bro Ayo, I will copy it oo!”

She said it in such a funny way that we all laughed.

I asked two other boys the same question, and they also said they would copy the answers.

I asked further, “What is that act called?”

They all answered, “Examination malpractice.”

I then asked, “Is it good? And what will happen if you’re caught?”

They replied, “It’s not good, and we will be expelled.”

Yet, even knowing the consequences, they still didn’t change their minds about engaging in malpractice.

These children must have seen it multiple times, heard people talk about cheating, or probably have friends who engage in it from time to time to pass exams. Gradually, the fear and understanding that it’s wrong fades away—because cheating and examination malpractice have become an acceptablething in our educational society.

Believers often forget that we don’t live by the standard of this world. Just because your work culture or environment accepts and promotes something that goes against the Word of God doesn’t mean you’re free to also participate in the sin.

Rather than taking responsibility and studying hard to pass your exams, some choose the easier path and give in to the pressure of cheating.

Cheating is just one of the many things that have become acceptable in our society. Even in marriage, you see Christians cheating on their spouses—mostly because it has become a “normal” thing.

Child of God, you are a city set on a hill. You are meant to stand your ground and do the perfect will of the Father, not conform to this world.

Be the change.

Stand your ground in holiness.

Don’t conform.