Many Christians believe that associating themselves with individuals who keep them repeating the same cycles is okay. They may even believe God wants them to endure toxic fellowship with family, friends, loved ones, romantic relationships, etc. This is far from the truth. Some Christians have been putting up with toxic relationships their whole lives. They have become used to dysfunctional relationships. It is a normal part of their fellowship with others. They are so accustomed to it that the idea that they deserve better is a foreign concept in their mind.
There are even people in our lives who contribute to the belief system that we have to put up with toxic relationships. Most of the time it is toxic people or people who are stuck in strongholds themselves that reinforce this mindset. We maintain these relationships because we have been affected by these people since were young. For some of us, the very first relationships we built were toxic.
How do we shift this mindset? What does God’s tell us about toxic relationships?
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will”. (Romans 12:2)
“Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so”? (Amos 3:3)
Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? (2 Corinthians 6:14)
Therefore, come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you.” (2 Corinthians 6:17)
God wants us to mature and be more selective about the company we keep. Some of us need to get tired of being around people who drain our spirit and make us feel like we are worthless. God wants us to know we can be intentional about who we allow in our lives. We need to make sure that the company we keep is not hindering us from where God wants us to be.
Sometimes the people we have in our lives can indeed impact our destiny and purpose. We are to be on guard about who we let influence our lives. God intended for us to be wise enough to see the negative impact that people have on our lives. We must understand and be aware of an old saying “Garbage in, garbage out” or “You are the company you keep”.
The people we surround ourselves with are having an impact on us every day. If we are not careful about who we interact with we may become stuck just like the company, we keep. Don’t be deceived into thinking that maintaining poor relationships will help you change people. This is a deceptive belief from society and the enemy. Only God and a person’s willingness to change can change a person.
We must surround ourselves with people that nurture us, mature us, and support where God wants us to be. God loves when we fellowship with other believers. We must be selective because some believers profess to be believers yet their lifestyle choices do not reflect that they are mature Christians. If we are also striving to grow they can hinder our progress. Don’t be fooled, the company you keep has a big impact on the outcome of your daily life.
As we go through the last holiday and look forward to the new year it is important to take inventory of the people in your life. This will make a difference in the goals and vision you have for the new year and your future endeavors. Depending on the goals you set, you will need people in your life that support you and can help you reach those goals.
Beware of the company you keep. It can be the difference between living out your purpose or never reaching your full potential.
“Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” (1 Corinthians 15:33)
Resilient Inspired Spiritual Excellence R.I.S.E. 