Written by: Gillian Fraser
Article source: JOY! Magazine
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2
Last month’s Biblical values issue caused quite a stir. We knew it would. Whenever you take a clear stand for truth, it shakes the comfort of compromise. We stood up for what we believe in – a Biblical worldview. Some in the liberal media were quick to criticise and mock what we published – from radio to newspapers to social media posts. But God had the final word. What the enemy meant for harm, the Lord used for good. We saw a wave of new readers and subscribers, messages of encouragement, and heartfelt thank-yous from believers across South Africa who felt seen, strengthened, and stirred to live differently. Many asked for practical tools on how to apply these truths – not just to believe the Bible, but to build their lives around it. That is why I am writing this.
The heart of conviction
Conviction is not the same as criticism. It is not driven by pride or dislike of people. True conviction flows from a love for truth and a love for God’s heart. It’s what keeps us anchored when culture drifts. When we see sin being celebrated or Scripture being twisted, it’s not anger that should rise first, but grief. Conviction is love that refuses to lie. It says, “I care too much to pretend this is fine.”
Being faithful
In South Africa today (and the world at large), truth is mocked and morality is fluid. To live counter-culturally does not mean becoming angry or arrogant; it means being faithful. It means letting God’s Word shape our thinking, our words, and our responses. We cannot fight darkness with outrage, only with light.
Everyday distinctives
Being counter-cultural is not just about what we oppose. It’s about what we practice. It shows in the way we treat people, the way we work, what we watch, and how we speak. Families who choose worship over worldly entertainment, honesty over shortcuts, prayer over panic – these are the quiet “revolutions” that change a nation.
Guard your heart
We must guard what we allow into our hearts. The enemy rarely walks in the front door; he slips in through screens and soundtracks. What we consume shapes what we believe. Ask the Lord to give you discernment over your media, music, and habits. The goal is not perfection but awareness.
Grace and courage
Jesus came full of grace and truth (John 1:14). That balance is our model. We can’t have truth without grace – that’s harsh and doesn’t reflect the Spirit of Christ. But we also can’t have grace without truth, as that’s shallow and will only serve to tickle ears. To live counter-culturally means holding both. Be kind, but be clear. Speak truth, but with humility. The goal is not to win debates, but to reflect Christ. Courage does not always roar – sometimes it looks like standing quietly when everyone else bows.
When I look at the year ahead, I believe God is calling His people to be both gentle and unshakeable. We can be confident without being combative, strong without being hard. The world is watching how we live, and how we love. Let them see Jesus in both.
How to live COUNTER-CULTURALLY
5 practical ways
1. Stay rooted in Scripture daily.
Read the Word before facing the world. Let truth shape your outlook each morning.
2. Choose fellowship over isolation.
We stand stronger together. Surround yourself with believers who sharpen and encourage you.
3. Guard your inputs
Pay attention to what you read, watch, and listen to. What fills your mind will eventually flow from your mouth.
4. Pray before reacting.
Not every battle deserves your comment. Let the Holy Spirit guide your response.
5. Let love lead every conviction.
Boldness is beautiful when it is carried in kindness. Speak truth with a tender heart.
A closing prayer
Lord, as we end this year and prepare for the next, help us to be people of conviction and compassion. Give us courage to stand for truth, and grace to walk in love. Renew our minds daily through Your Word, and teach us how to live with both strength and gentleness in a world that has lost its way. May our lives reflect Your light in every conversation and choice. Amen.
This article is featured in the December issue of JOY! Magazine. Read a digital version of this magazine here: joygifts.co.za
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Date published: 01/12/2025
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only.
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