Who are the people closest to you? Think about it and consider this: We should strive to "walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." — Proverbs 13:20 NIV
Plus, I am sure you have heard: "You are defined by the company you keep and how well you keep it. Not by what you just happen to do." — Ralph Brinker
We must remain cautious when choosing friends or listening to anyone who has an opportunity to offer influence in our lives. In fact, it may be time to rethink some of those friendships.
"Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character." 1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV
Pay close attention to the words that pass from their lips. Make a mental note of their hospitality towards others. Know this: if words are filled with contempt and malice towards others; they are also doing the same to you! It is time to examine your own heart. Are you happy? Are you surrounded in perfect peace? Are you constantly angry and judging others? Are you supportive and willing to serve others? If you answer no to any of those, it is time for self-reflection. We are all accountable for the words that we speak.
Remember to "pray without ceasing." — 1 Thessalonians 5:17 KJV.
Our concern should be the subjects, tasks, talk that is pleasing to God instead of what is accepted by man. "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." — Romans 6:23 NIV
Know your value. Understand your worth. Society will not and can not provide the peace your heart desires.
Who do you want to be? We all desire happiness. Well, true happiness is found when we turn away from the things that lead to death and destruction. Yes, death and destruction are in the tongue. Howerver, just as it speaks death, the tongue has the power to speak life. We will have days that are trying and maybe even sad. But we can have a fulfilling life. It is my opinion that "The Beatitudes" are a blueprint of direction and guidence that was taught by Jesus on The Mount:
2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.eee
12 "Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you." —Matthew 5:2-11
We must decide for ourselves who we want to be and what we will contribute to society. We can either be influenced and follow the masses. Or, we can allow Godly wisdom, discernment and truth to set us apart and embrace our ability to lead. "Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." — Philippians 4:7 NLT
You have the power to be the best YOU that You can be.
