The “frog in boiling water” analogy is often used to illustrate the concept of gradual change or the failure to recognize danger until it’s too late. The analogy suggests that if you put a frog in a pot of boiling water, it will immediately jump out to save itself. However, if you put the frog in a pot of cold water and slowly increase the temperature, the frog will not notice the gradual change and will eventually be boiled alive.

It seems, according to science, the analogy may be slightly inaccurate. However, the point can still be made about being aware of our surroundings. With the world around us changing everyday, staying vigilant is more important than ever. It’s remarkable to observe how what was once deemed morally objectionable is now embraced by our culture.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Romans 12:2

Is your spidey-sense on vacation?

As Christians, we need to be aware of the gradual changes in our culture. Sometimes sinful behaviors can become normalized without us even realizing it. It’s like our “spidey-sense” goes on vacation! For example, using bad language may start off as an occasional slip-up, but it can easily become a regular habit. We draw lines in the sand only to play hopscotch over them whenever it suits our “I know my truth” agenda. How do you define your truth? If it aligns with God’s standards, it should remain constant. Don’t allow yourself to slowly move away from what is right in His eyes.

How quick have we as Christ followers let the world around us seep into our everyday lives? How quick have we become the frog in boiling water? I think that a majority of the reasons why we allow ourselves to live by the world’s standards is out of fear. Fear of rebuke. Fear of condemnation. Fear of being canceled, laughed at, and losing relationships. Fear is a powerful motivator to stay in the pot of water while the heat gets slowly cranked up.

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Romans 8:31

Pushing back in our life

We need to stand up against society’s expectations and show our children a different way. Instead of just accepting what society tells us is right, let’s consider an alternative. We can’t change our circumstances, but we can change our mindset. Instead of being overwhelmed by the pressures around us, let’s embrace the love of Jesus and be passionate about reaching out to those who need Him. Spend time with God daily and pursue the purpose He has for your life.

To make sure our actions align with God’s truth, we should ask ourselves: “Does this align with what the Bible teaches?” For instance, I was bullied when I was younger, so I’m against bullying. However, being against bullying doesn’t mean supporting a cause or agreeing with everything it stands for. We can still show God’s love by standing up against mistreatment of people. The world might say it’s either all or nothing, but that’s not true. As followers of Christ, we are called to represent Him in a broken world not conform to the world.

We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.

2 Corinthians 5:20

Practical Tips

• Daily devotional – the Bible app has thousands to choose from
• Daily prayer – spend alone time with God throughout your day
• Supportive believers – we weren’t designed to do life alone
• Redraw your lines to match God’s lines – do your best not to cross them, but when you do, be quick to ask forgiveness