“But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler – not even to eat with such a one” (1 Corinthians 5:11).
You will become like those you hang out with. If you walk with Jesus, you will become like Him. We have been created in such a way that we do not think it true, but we do conform to our surroundings and to those with whom we associate. This is not a cause for shunning others, but of recognizing that we need to protect our boundaries. Be on your guard that you remain faithful.
Lord, show me how I am influenced by those around me. Guide me to see clearly that I need to protect myself from some. Guide me to always be gracious, but to realize that I need not accommodate everyone who wants my attention. Help me to continue faithfully walking with You amidst all the noise of this world that I would be conformed to the image of Christ.
Lord Jesus, You are the One who has come to save us. We need what You alone can give. Help me to understand how to walk in a world that is filled with sinners like me. Help me to walk the narrow path You have planned before me. Guide me to walk with You always knowing that You alone have the words of eternal life. Lead me into faithfulness, Jesus, that I would always walk beside You. Amen.
