The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.
Romans 13:12-14

Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commandments of my God.
Psalm 119:115

Following Jesus, living with Him as the Lord of my life, being guided, led and empowered by His Holy Spirit and enjoying a close personal relationship with God, is the most incredibly satisfying way to live. It’s what we were made for. It’s the whole point of our existence, and the promise of eternity in heaven is like the cream and the cherry on top of the Sundae of a delightful life.

But such a life in incompatible with the old life of sinful, selfish, sensually-driven behavior that this world offers on every side. Well-meaning (or not so well-meaning) friends, either fearing that I am missing out on all the “fun” stuff or jealous of my newfound happiness, are always ready to offer alternatives to God’s way.

Sometimes the only way to avoid the temptation is to cultivate a whole new set of friends. If the old friends want to come along with me as I follow Jesus, great; I wish with all my heart that they would. But if not, then they will be left behind. I’m leaving!

Lord Jesus, give me strength. Give me new friends who love You. Give me the life for which You created me. Deliver me from every evil way, and lead me in the way everlasting. Amen!

Pastor Dan Giles