Be Not Deceived...

1 Corinthians 15:33 (KJV), "Be not deceived : evil communications corrupt good manners."

We've heard it said, "It only takes one bad apple to spoil the whole bunch." But when we think of evil, we sometimes think of the "really bad things". But, in this verse, "evil" is defined as "a bad nature; troublesome, injurious, pernicious, destructive, baneful; a mode of thinking, feeling, acting wrong". When you have companionship with someone who doesn't think or act as a Christian should, it can lead you away from the lifestyle of holiness that God intends for you to lead. 

You may think that their thought patterns and actions do not affect you...but like the verse says, be not deceived. An apple may look good on the outside, but on the inside it is all rotten. And that rottenness can spread from one apple to another. So how do you know who the "bad apples" are? Ask God for wisdom to help you. Like James 1:5 (NKJV), "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." God isn't going to think any less of you because you ask Him for wisdom to help make those kind of decisions. Sometimes it is difficult to understand someone's character & motives. But God knows it all and is willing to lead & help you. Just ask. 

One thing that is important to note is that just because someone is a "bad apple" doesn't mean that you shun them or treat them rudely. Jesus said in John 13:34, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." Jesus loved with an unconditional love...we must do the same. This isn't a "mushy" kind of love for a love that shows kindness. You don't have to agree with everything someone does to love them. Like the adage says, "A little kindness never hurt anyone..."