Who You Hanging With?

Those with whom we fellowship the most, influences the person we become. Yes, it's true, our attitude and behavior takes on the personality of those with which we associate the most. Regardless of our age, it happens!  Children that play, day after day, with the same playmates, will develop like characteristics. It's natural to take on the persona of our friends, mainly because we like them.  Therefore, we begin to imitate, things they do, or the traits we admire. And the more we keep company, the more we're influenced.  A married couple, that has spent many years together, often begin to look alike and even act like. They can complete each others sentences and automatically know how the other one will respond.

If fellowship with natural individuals can have that kind of effect on us, what do you think will happen if we spend more time with God? Of course the more time devoted with Him, will inevitably, begin to be revealed in our characteristics. We will develop the same attitude and behavior qualities. What a concept, to become like Him! Paul said, "Imitate me, as I imitate Christ.." 1 Cor. 11:1 and Eph. 5:1 "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children."

Most people find fellowship with Him to be a bother. In this life of ours, there is much to do, work, family, chores, and recreation. Some say there's not enough time in the day to set aside even 15 minutes to fellowship with our Lord.  It's been noted that many tend to regulate devotionals to time, rather than have a life of devotion to Him. If we live in fellowship with Him throughout each moment of our life, we shall become more like Him.  The qualities of God are more to be desired than that of ourself. Paul wrote, John 3:30 "He must increase, but I must decrease."   A famous minister once said, "If we would spend more time with God, people would sense more of God, when they are with us."

With whomever our time is spent, at work; an entertainment medium such as t.v., movies, games, worldly music; worry, fret or fear; reading and meditating on God's Word, or in prayer, that's who we will be like! 1 Cor. 15:33 "Do not be so deceived and misled! Evil companionships (communion, associations) corrupt and deprave good manners and morals and character."  We will automatically think like them, talk like them, and act like them. Our way of thinking and life, is influenced by who or what we are around the most.

Instead of choosing not to be affected by others, chose to allow God to influence your life, so that you can be an instrument of His grace and love. Choose to be the light of the world or the salt of the earth. Pour forth the flavor of the Spirit of God into the lives of others so they may know Christ. Ps. 17:15 (Amp) "As for me, I will continue beholding Your face in righteousness (rightness, justice, and right standing with You); I shall be fully satisfied, when I awake (to find myself) beholding Your form  [and having sweet communion with You]." Who are you going to hang out with?

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