George Washington once wrote, "Associate yourself with men of good quality if you esteem your reputation. For it’s better to be alone than in bad company."

Being influenced by non-believers or people of other beliefs has been a problem since Bible days. Paul warned the Corinthians not to associate with people who practiced various sins. In 1 Corinthians 5:11 he says, “Do not even eat with such people!” Interacting with those who do not share the same faith or conviction is necessary to some extent when it comes to sharing the gospel, but our close friendships should be shared with those who will edify and encourage us to grow in our faith. When we are surrounded by different voices that speak against the truth of the Bible, this may create dangers to our spiritual health, especially if we are not strongly rooted in Christ.

If you let non-Christians shape your thinking, you will conform to the ways of the world instead of the way of God. Romans 12:2 reminds us to not conform to this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our mind. Only then can we know what God’s good and perfect will is. At times it may feel like our convictions are less than common among those around us, but this is where our light can shine the brightest! Do not let yourself be influenced by Satan’s lies. So many Christians have been led astray to believe things that clearly go against the Word of God, which is why it is so important for us to read and know the truth for ourselves, then we can stand strong against the influences that want to lead us astray.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, help my life be so grounded in you that I will be able to have a positive impact on those around me, instead of them being a negative influence on me. Help me reflect your truth in all that I do, and may I always speak Your Truth in love, especially when standing strong against other opinions. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.  

1. 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.