Who Ya Hangin' With?
Bad company corrupts good character
 Do you shape the environment that is around you or are you influenced by the behavior of others? This discussion is expanded in the scripture when God instructed the children of Israel on behavioral matters in the new land. God says in Lev. 18:3, "after the doings of the land of Egypt, wherein ye dwelt, shall ye not do: and after the doings of the land of Canaan, whither I bring you, shall ye not do: neither shall ye walk in their ordinances." God knew his people would encounter other nations with different ungodly value systems; therefore, he instructed his children to follow his instructions that always lead to righteousness.
Consider this question, "Who ya hangin' with"? As a Christian, are you hangin' with people that will influence your behavior and lead you in the wrong direction? Or are you hang in to inspire those that are around you that may have lost their way to get back on track with God? In Matthew 11:19, Jesus makes this observation to the multitudes, "the son of man came eating and drinking, and they say behold a gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners." Jesus was accused of being a sinner by the establishment of that time because of who he was hangin' with. We understand that Jesus was among sinners as a witness to righteousness; teaching, healing, and casting out devils. Jesus was always charge and leading those around him even while he dwelled among those that were sinners.
 In a dramatic contrast to Jesus, the children of Israel allowed the nations around them to influence their behavior toward God. The children of Israel began to indulge in the same behaviors as the other nations around them. They found themselves in adultery, idol worship, filthy communications, and unhealthy practices that destroyed them as a nation. We are not too far from historic Israel in that we may be taking on the ungodly customs and practices of the individuals and nations around us. Do you find yourself participating in activities that our father, God, warned against many years ago? If so, ask yourself, "Who ya hangin' with"?
Looking for more?
Are you hungry for more inspirational scriptures with light music? Do you need Bible Study Resources for your weekly studies? Would you like to start a daily devotionals? Our web site will point you into the right direction with online resources that is available to every believer the has an internet connected computer. We are linked to some of the world's riches resources on the internet today. You can use these resources online or use them offline as downloaded software to your computer. Visit our web site here at Tim Hamner Ministries Learn more about this...
|
|
Ready to Serve
|
|
As a member of the body of Christ, I've learned a few things along the way that you may find interesting. This walk with Jesus Christ is a fascinating journey that is best shared with friends.
The articles presented on this site are just a small token of the enormity of God in my life. He has take me through many tests, trials, struggles, pains, heartaches, and tribulations.l However, I've found him to be true to his word. 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'
Please feel free to contact me if you need a prayer partner, a friend to speak with, or you just want to say hello.
|
|
|
Are you the leader among those you socialize with or are you a follower? Paul notes in his letter to the saints in Corinth that, "bad company corrupts good character" (1 Cor 15:33). The individuals you socialize with will use ungodly wisdom in an attempt to influence your decision-making. Paul’s simple, but profound statement demonstrates that bad company or ungodly solutions can tarnish your character. The scriptures encourage us to, “be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might” (Eph 6:10). Paul encourages the believer to put on the whole armor of God preparing to stand against the wiles of the devil. Jesus Christ has order your steps through his word. His word is true. Jesus words are a light unto your feet and a lamp unto your path. Stay on course.
|
|
