It is important that we direct our thoughts toward God and keep them focused on Him. And it is equally important how we choose the people with whom we relate. People affect our thoughts. We should surround ourselves with people who are focused on God and want to grow in the Lord as much as we do. We have to be selective and sometimes says no to relationships with certain people—even if they seem exciting and interesting. True excitement and friendship come through sharing our lives in Jesus Christ. We cannot always choose whom we will spend our time with daily. But we can focus on sharing our lives—and our struggles—with those who are also seeking a closer relationship with God. . . .
We must avoid putting ourselves in situations that compromise our moral convictions. While we must be in the world, we do not have to let the world be in us.
James P. Gills, M.D., Imaginations: More Than You Think, ppg. 142-143
4 comments:
Thank you for this reminder for our daily walk. I will be sharing this with our two sons, who are quickly becoming young men! As the author points out and if I can rephrase it a bit...We can not isolate ourselves from the world, but we can insulate ourselves from its harmful affects. Thank you Glenn for your daily words of encouragement!
A proverb comes to mind, he that walks with the wise will become wiser yet. But the companion of fools comes to ruin. Another passage - do not be deceived, bad company corrupts good character. Finally, iron sharpens iron.
Yes, we're in the world, but believers need to be seeking out wise, mature, fellow sojourners for counsel and true fellowship. Especially hard when blood relatives/family members are not of the family of God.
-Carolyn
Thank-you Carolyn for pointing out those proverbs! I am always on the alert for more iron in this perishing world that we live in. Blessings to you.
Anon 11/13/15 7:51am, you're welcome. One more for you - not from Proverbs, but NT - the sheep know the voice of the Shepherd, and a stranger they will not follow. :)
-Carolyn
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