Happy Tuesday! Have you ever did a self evaluation of your character? As an early Christian (when I decided to truly walk with Christ), there were habits and beliefs that I wanted to change. However, the more I stayed with my old crowd of friends the less I changed. I was prone to the same attitudes, same verbal language and tendencies. I knew that if I wanted to truly live, I needed to separate myself from the things that brought death (no growth, no change). Today we will continue in 1 Corinthians chapter 15. Join me as we read Paul’s letter.
“29 If the dead will not be raised, what point is there in people being baptized for those who are dead? Why do it unless the dead will someday rise again?
30 And why should we ourselves risk our lives hour by hour? 31 For I swear, dear brothers and sisters, that I face death daily. This is as certain as my pride in what Christ Jesus our Lord has done in you. 32 And what value was there in fighting wild beasts—those people of Ephesus[f]—if there will be no resurrection from the dead? And if there is no resurrection, “Let’s feast and drink, for tomorrow we die!”[g] 33 Don’t be fooled by those who say such things, for “bad company corrupts good character.” 34 Think carefully about what is right, and stop sinning. For to your shame I say that some of you don’t know God at all.” – 1 Corinthians 15:29-34 NLT
Paul continues to remind the Corinthian church about the reality of Jesus’ ressurection and the fact that when Christ returns believers who have passed away or are alive will be joined with Christ. Paul continues his point that if it isn’t true then he is wasting his life. However, Paul knows and shares with them that the company of false teachers within the church are deceiving them. Paul called them to turn away from those who are misleading them because they were infecting the church.
Sisters and brothers, there will come a time when we will need to separate from things that lead us astray or slow our progression in our growth with the Lord. When that day comes, don’t be sad – get equipped, grow in the word and build up your faith. As you grow and mature in the word, as your life begins to change, as your character becomes more like Christ those same people you left, who are still watching will begin to see a change in you. Trust God’s timing, in the end he may call you back to minister to those same people.
For now, be mindful “bad company does corrupt good character. Ask yourself:
- Who is corrupting my character?
- Do I want to change?
- Do I want to grow in the word?
- What do I need to do to become more diligent in God’s word?
- Am I willing to count the cost and trust that God will prepare the way for me to change?
Father God, thank you for another day where we are given an opportunity to glorify your name. Lord, you have many servants, angels, etc. – but you choose us to be your hands and feet in this earth. Lord, continue to equip us in your word. Lord, strengthen our knowledge, discernment and love for you. Lord, as we go into battle against the schemes of the enemy remind us that we are victorious in you. Remind us that no weapon formed against us will prosper. Remind us that greater is You who is in us than he who is in the world. Remind us that you love us. Remind us that there is a season for everything, but no matter the season You will always be with us. Lord, don’t leave us barren, produce fruit from our good character and help us to be a light to the world. In Jesus name, amen.
Keep praying! Keep Trusting! Keep believing!
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