Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered outside the gate. Therefore, let us go forth to him outside the camp, bearing his reproach. For we have no continuing city here, but we seek one to come.
Select a thought to read by choosing a collection, the month, and then the day:
Nobody had to guess whether I was seeking to please God when I first came to Jesus. Nobody had to guess whether I hated the way I had lived. Nobody had to wonder if I was ashamed of my sins. Nobody had to wonder if I was determined to live right or if I was humble. Nobody had to wonder, whether they were old friends or new acquaintances. Nobody had to wonder what I stood for. Do you know why no one had to wonder? Because I really was finished with sin and was on the Lord’s side, with all my heart. I was sick of myself and sick of sin. And if anyone around me still loved sin, I was sick of them, too. I didn’t want anyone in my life who wanted anything other than the righteousness of God.
When it is real, no one has to wonder. When you really are committed to Christ, every person around you knows it, whether sinner or saint.
King David’s attitude reflected mine. He said, “Depart from me, you deceitful and bloody men.” It did not bother me in the least, and I am sure it did not bother David, if sinful people didn’t like me any more because I didn’t want them around me. I know how David felt about that. He wanted nothing in his life that was tainted with sin, nothing that was less than acceptable with God. Why should I want someone in my life if that person doesn’t love my God? Paul warned the saints, “Do not be deceived; bad companions corrupt good habits” (1Cor. 15:33). That being the case, why should I want to be corrupted?
Get real with God and man. Choose your path and let no man lead you astray. Make up your mind what you want your life to be like, and go for it. But be prepared. Unrighteous people around you will consider you to be a fanatic, or a fool, for not wanting them and their foolishness in your life any longer. They will “think it strange”, said Peter, “that you run not with them” any more. But care nothing for it. Set all your affection on the approval of Christ, and then, no matter what ungodly humans say or think of you, you will have peace.