Be Doers Of The Word and Not Hearers Only

Our Bible study discussions on ‘associations’ really blessed me hearing practical examples of others whilst sharing their own experiences. I heard scriptures that really got me thinking how we must be so vigilant/careful what we are speaking. The conversations we are allowing ourselves to get involved with, are they pure/holy, pleasing to our heavenly father? What are we allowing people to speak into our ears? What are we receiving? These scriptures came to mind.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” Philippians 4:8 KJV

 “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” Ephesians 4:29 KJV

But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation. 1 Peter 1:15 KJV

I have been dealing with a recent situation I did not want to discuss openly, however, I realise by sharing I could help others not to fall into the same trap I have. Where I live, I have an elderly neighbour in her late 70s. Unfortunately, she has no family living closely and lives alone. I often reach out to her and take care of her daily. Recently an old friend visits and stays with her. As I make my daily visits, the friend consistently speaks all manner of profanities, curse words and continuously moans and complains about practically everything which grieves me to the core. When I hear the words being spoken, I would usually excuse myself and leave. After the bible study discussion, I was convicted that I am putting myself in this situation and opening myself up to hearing these things. Although my intentions are good, just being there and allowing those things into my ears, are not of God. Being around this environment will corrupt me and is not pleasing to the father.

Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. 1 Corinthians 15:33 KJV

I had a check in my spirit man. I need to cut off this association for my spiritual health, so I made a stand and went to visit my neighbour. I made some Rhubarb crumble, which I took over to her, anyway. During my visit, I advised my neighbour I would not be visiting her for some time because I will be spending some time in prayers. I do not want her to be offended that I am not visiting, as I do care for her and know she needs help. As a brother in Christ mentioned in our bible study, it is not easy to cut off people, but it is needful for our spiritual growth! Are we pleasing man or are we wanting to please the Lord?

I pondered who is in my life?. Who am I associating myself with? What conversations am I involving myself with? And what am I allowing my ears to hear?

 “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” 2 Corinthians 6:17 KJV

After, bible study my son (aged 12) and I had a discussion on what we had learnt and discussed practical ways we can make changes in our own lives when situations accrue how we can apply this teaching in an everyday practical sense. During our devotional time, my son closed off in prayer and brought up various prayer points concerning associations. We put them before the Lord, which shows me he was listening and really understood the importance of guarding ourselves from wrong associations and how they can impact us spiritually.

The previous discussion on integrity was so insightful. I was convicted of times I had said I will do something but then delayed it or did not do it at all. I went before the Lord and repented, asking Holy Spirit to reveal anything I had said I would do but had not. I made myself a list and have started to work through it.

Heavenly Father we thank you for the convictions of our hearts concerning the associations we are keeping and what it means to walk in integrity representing your kingdom here on earth, Father by your grace we disconnect ourselves from all wrong associations and sever all ungodly soul ties and all corrupt communications in Jesus’ name by your grace grant us the wisdom to speak only when led to speak and to go only where Holy Spirit leads us all to the glory of Jesus Christ. Heavenly Father, grant us the grace to be men and women of integrity and to separate ourselves Holy unto you fit for your use in Jesus’ name.