Whether we realize it or not, all of us are influenced by culture. That means that everything around us – our countries, schools and families – become part of who we are. Culture influences what we believe and the way we practice it. Even Christianity has a different flavor in Middle Eastern and America. And because some cultures are so strongly identified with religion, changing religion can seem unthinkable… or even fatal.
Every culture has strengths and weaknesses: some aspects fit with the Bible’s teachings and please God, but some don’t. So, what place should culture have in our lives?
CHRISTIANS: aim to live more in tune with God, his word, and his kingdom, than with the culture that surrounds us.
MUSLIMS, Buddhists, Sikhs and others: look for what is true and follow it. Don’t let fear or cultural pride keep you from seeking God’s light and finding his salvation.
