The Men of Iron Minute

by Ryan Zook | Curriculum & Content Developer

Navigating Friends With Different Values Than Mine

Do you have flimsy faith?

If you do, be careful about who influences you. Most of us can think of times when our friends led us in the wrong direction. It’s easy to revisit those stories and blame your friends for their negative influences, but it was your fault. You allowed yourself to make a bad decision when someone else made a poor choice. 

It’s not your friends who determine your future. It’s your character. 

So, if you want to grow and mature, you must evaluate your own character honestly. Don’t blame someone else. 

The Apostle Paul was talking about character and influence when he wrote, “Bad company corrupts good character.” Think carefully about what is right, and stop sinning. For to your shame I say that some of you don’t know God at all.” 1 Corinthians 15: 33-34 

Paul wrote this to new Christians in Corinth. They had flimsy faith. If you’re in the same situation, you need to surround yourself with men who are mature in their faith. Men who understand who God is and what he has called them to do. 

Find friends who make every decision they can to honor God and further his kingdom. 

You don’t have to eliminate all your other friends. But you do need to mature out of your own flimsy faith. Take an honest inventory of your life and determine who you really are. Lying to yourself has no benefits at all. Don’t pretend to be a Christian when you’re not. If you have flimsy faith, find mature friends. If you are mature in your faith, invest in someone else. 

Many people need more authentic Christians involved in their lives, not less. If you have been following Jesus for a long and are confident in your faith, striking up a meaningful friendship with non-believers could change their lives. 

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