Bad to the Bone?

"Do not be misled: 'Bad company corrupts good character'." (1 Corinthians 15:33)

Here in this passage, the apostle Paul shares a quote from the Greek writer Menander when he writes, “bad company corrupts good morals”. This is the first quotation from Greek literature recorded in the New Testament. The concept, however, was not a new one. In fact, we see the same caution being offered over 1,400 years earlier by Joshua.

Joshua 23, reflects the words of an aging, courageous leader who challenges the Israelites to faithfully complete the task at hand of removing the nations from their land, the good land the Lord had given them. In the meantime, they are to be careful not to align with these unbelieving nations, intermarry with them, or worship their false gods.

Many times young folks try to explain to me that they can change a person; they can be the one to lead them to the Lord or improve their relationsgip with Him. What they see is a cute guy or attractive girl that they perceive as good catch, but they are not spiritually where they need to be.

We are warned in Scripture:"Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers." (2 Corinthians 6:14). Partnerships, especially marriage, must be among believers.I have rarely seen a believer strengthened by a relationship with one who does not know the Lord. Sadly, many tmes the believer is led down a spiraling path away from intamacy with God.

Evil is bad to the bone . . . to the core, and it rots to the heart. We need to guard our hearts. Leave spiritual things to the Holy Spirit, especially in close personal relationships. Listen to wise counsel and not simply what you want to hear. God's word (and mother's advice) is always best!